Two Charged in Fentanyl Overdose Investigation

Published on October 03, 2023

ARLINGTON, Va. – The Arlington County Police Department’s Organized Crime Section is announcing two arrests following an investigation into fentanyl overdoses. Walter Zelaya Padilla, 19, of Fairfax, VA is charged with Distribution of Fentanyl to a Person Under the Age of 18, Distribution of Narcotics in a School Zone, Conspiracy to Distribute Narcotics (Fentanyl), and Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor (x3). He is being held without bond in the Arlington County Detention Facility. Additionally, a juvenile male, of Arlington, VA is charged with Distribution of Fentanyl, Distribution of Narcotics (Fentanyl) in a School Zone, and Conspiracy to Distribute Narcotics (Fentanyl). Additional information regarding the juvenile suspect is restricted from release in accordance with Virginia Code.

At approximately 11:45 a.m. on September 27, 2023, police were dispatched to Wakefield High School, located in the 1300 block of S. Dinwiddie Street, for the report of an overdose. Upon arrival, officers located two female juveniles who were suffering from an apparent fentanyl overdose. One victim was given a dose of Narcan, and both were transported to an area hospital and have since recovered.

During the course of the comprehensive investigation, detectives assigned to the Organized Crime Section identified Walter Zelaya Padilla as the individual suspected of supplying the controlled substances to the arrested juvenile, who in turn, supplied the victims.

The Arlington County Police Department remains committed to thoroughly investigating narcotics incidents and holding accountable those who traffic dangerous and deadly narcotics into our community. The department’s efforts are supported by the involvement of the community and anyone with information about narcotics activity in Arlington County is encourage to report information for investigation by using our Confidential Drug Activity form.

This remains an active criminal investigation and anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact the Arlington County Police Department’s tip line at 703-228-4180 or ACPDTipline@arlingtonva.us or anonymously through the Arlington County Crime Solvers hotline at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477).

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are numerous resources available through the Arlington Addiction Recovery Initiative. For additional community resources and contact information, visit our website.

Image Gallery

Booking photograph: Walter Zelaya Padilla