Winnipeg Mother Denies Meth Use as Inquest Probes Baby Chloe's Tragic Death

A Winnipeg mother, Alicia Chartrand, has delivered powerful and emotional testimony at an inquest into the heartbreaking death of her 10-month-old baby, Chloe Chartrand. With tears in her eyes, Chartrand vehemently denied ever using methamphetamine, even as her infant was found with the drug in her bloodstream at the time of her death in January 2023.

Chartrand's testimony painted a picture of a devastating turn of events. She recounted waking up on that fateful morning to find her baby unresponsive and not breathing. Chloe was rushed to the hospital but tragically passed away. The subsequent toxicology report revealed methamphetamine in Chloe's system, a finding that has since become the focal point of the ongoing inquest.

In a deeply personal account, Chartrand told the court that she believes she was drugged during an assault prior to Chloe's death. She asserted that someone might have covertly administered the drug to her, leading to its presence in her system and, consequently, in her baby's. This claim directly contradicts earlier testimony from Chloe's father, Jeremy Flett, who had stated under oath that he had witnessed Chartrand using meth on previous occasions.

Chartrand adamantly refuted Flett's claims, stating she had no recollection of him ever seeing her use the drug. Her lawyer further questioned her about specific dates and instances Flett mentioned, to which Chartrand maintained her denial. The mother’s testimony highlighted the complex and often conflicting narratives that emerge in such tragic circumstances, leaving the inquest to untangle the truth behind Chloe’s untimely demise.

The inquest's primary objective is not to assign blame but to meticulously examine the circumstances surrounding Chloe Chartrand's death. Its findings are intended to inform recommendations that could prevent similar tragedies in the future. As the proceedings continue, the court is tasked with piecing together the events of that fateful day, weighing conflicting testimonies, and ultimately seeking clarity for a community grappling with profound loss.