Buzzing Today

Whitney Purvis Arrested: ’16 and Pregnant’ Star Charged in Fatal Overdose Case

Whitney Purvis smiling with her teenage son, overlaid with arrest news

Floyd County: Whitney Purvis, known for her appearance on the first season of MTV’s 16 and Pregnant, has been arrested and charged with involuntary manslaughter in connection with the drug overdose death of a Georgia man earlier this year, according to police reports released this week.

The 33-year-old was taken into custody on Monday, July 7, and faces additional charges of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. TMZ and FOX 5 Atlanta report that the case involves a street drug known as “Tranq” — a powerful and dangerous mix of Fentanyl and the animal tranquilizer Xylazine.

Purvis’ arrest follows a tumultuous year marked by personal loss. In June, she publicly shared on Facebook that her 16-year-old son, Weston Jr., had died, describing her grief in raw and heartbreaking posts. The teenager’s father, Weston Gosa Sr., had reportedly restricted Purvis from attending their son’s funeral, leading to a very public fallout between the former couple.

Update: MTV’s 16 and Pregnant alum Whitney Purvis, 33, has been arrested in Georgia on charges of involuntary manslaughter.

Authorities say she allegedly supplied a fatal dose of “Tranq,” a street drug containing Fentanyl and Xylazine.

The arrest comes just weeks after the death of her 16-year-old son and a public fallout with his father over funeral access.

What Happened on February 16? Overdose in Rome, Georgia

According to police documents obtained by FOX 5, officers responded to a residence on 8th Street in Rome, Georgia, on the night of February 16, 2025, where they found 33-year-old John Mark Harris unresponsive. He was later declared dead at the scene. Authorities recovered drug paraphernalia and initiated an investigation into the circumstances of his death.

A subsequent warrant accused Purvis of providing Harris with the dose of Tranq that led to his fatal overdose. The drug combination has gained notoriety across the U.S. for its sedative effects and high fatality rate.

Online Tribute Raises Eyebrows

While awaiting developments in the case, Purvis had posted a lengthy, emotional message on Henderson and Sons Funeral Home’s online memorial for Harris on March 3. In her tribute, she described him as a “good-hearted & one-of-a-kind man,” recalling their shared love of cooking, TV binge sessions, and late-night conversations.

“You came to my rescue on many occasions and saved me over the years,” she wrote. “Rest in peace and my condolences to your family and friends. I pray they are able to find some kind of comfort during this tragic time.”

Recent Loss of Her Son Adds to Public Scrutiny

In June, Purvis had announced on social media that her son, Weston Jr., had passed away at just 16 years old. The cause of death has not been officially disclosed, though she stated it was due to illness, pending autopsy confirmation.

“This is really my worst nightmare come true,” she wrote in a widely shared Facebook post. “He was so perfect. I don’t want it to be real. I would do anything just to hold him.”

Later, she claimed she was barred from attending her son’s funeral by his father and accused the funeral home of denying her entry due to not being on the guest list. “It always has to be drama,” she wrote. “Guess who wasn’t on the list? Me and all my friends and family.”

A Troubled History

This is not Purvis’ first encounter with the law. She had previously been arrested on shoplifting and child support contempt charges. Her appearance on 16 and Pregnant in 2009 documented her teenage pregnancy journey with Weston Sr., and the couple’s relationship remained on and off until 2014.

Authorities have not yet released a court date. Legal proceedings are expected to begin in Floyd County early next week.

Kamna Arora

Kamna Arora

About Author

Kamna Arora is the Executive Editor – News & Features at ZizzPost, where she leads the editorial vision across breaking news, human-interest stories, and platform-optimized features. With over 15 years of experience in digital media and journalism, Kamna brings a rare blend of newsroom instinct, SEO strategy, and content innovation to every story she oversees. She has held senior editorial roles at some of India’s top media organizations, including News9Live, Times Now, and Zee News, where she helped shape large-scale content ecosystems and mentored high-performing editorial teams. Her work spans politics, social justice, lifestyle, spirituality, and algorithm-ready digital journalism. Kamna is passionate about making journalism more human, visible, and future-ready—especially in a media landscape shaped by AI and search engines. At ZizzPost, she also occasionally contributes directly to developing global stories, ensuring clarity and accuracy during moments of urgency. She holds a Master’s in International Relations from Griffith University.

You may also like

An American flag folded on a wooden table with military boots and helmet — Memorial Day 2025 tribute
Buzzing Today

Memorial Day 2025: 20+ Quotes, Images, Wishes, and Facts to Honor America’s Heroes

This Memorial Day 2025, honor America’s fallen heroes with powerful quotes, respectful wishes, beautiful images, and meaningful messages. Here’s how
United Airlines flight
Astro Buzzing Today Celebs Lifestyle Web Stories

United Airlines Enforces New Check-In Rule from June 3: Miss It and You May Miss Your Flight

New United Airlines policy starts June 3, requiring earlier check-ins. Check your airport’s specific deadline to avoid missed flights.