NAPA, CALIFORNIA – The Napa community is grappling with the heartbreaking and deeply disturbing death of a young child that has now led to serious criminal charges against his own parents. According to Napa County District Attorney Allison Haley, 42-year-old Belen Marie Shroyer has been formally charged with murder in connection with the fentanyl-related death of her 3-year-old son, Zayden Schultz. Her co-defendant and the child’s father, 47-year-old Timothy Daniel Schultz, faces charges of child abuse in the ongoing case.
The charges stem from an incident that occurred on August 15, 2024, when Napa County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to a home in the 1600 block of Mary C Drive in response to a 911 call reporting an unresponsive child. Upon arrival, deputies found young Zayden in critical condition. He was immediately transported to Providence Queen of the Valley Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead.
After an autopsy and toxicology analysis, it was confirmed that Zayden had died from fentanyl poisoning—a revelation that shocked and outraged first responders and investigators alike. Authorities allege that both parents, who were directly responsible for Zayden’s care, willfully caused harm to the child through negligence and exposure to the deadly opioid.
In a press release, District Attorney Haley stated:
“The death of an innocent child is a tragedy beyond words. Our office is committed to ensuring accountability and justice for Zayden, whose life was taken far too soon. The evidence in this case supports that the parents’ actions—or failure to act—directly contributed to his untimely death.”
Belen Shroyer has since been charged with murder, a felony that carries significant legal consequences, including a potential life sentence. Timothy Schultz, while not charged with murder, has been accused of child abuse, stemming from his alleged failure to protect his son and prevent the conditions that led to his fatal overdose.
This case adds to a growing number of fentanyl-related deaths in young children across the country. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid up to 100 times more potent than morphine, is often found mixed with other illicit substances and is increasingly contributing to accidental poisonings—even among toddlers and infants who unknowingly ingest trace amounts.
Ongoing Investigation
The Napa County Sheriff’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Zayden’s death. Officials have not yet disclosed how the fentanyl came into the child’s environment or whether additional charges could be filed pending further findings.
Neighbors and community members have expressed deep sorrow and disbelief at the tragedy. A small memorial with flowers, stuffed animals, and messages has been set up near the family’s home as a tribute to Zayden.
Public Statement and Safety Message
Local law enforcement and child welfare advocates urge all families to understand the extreme danger fentanyl poses, especially to young children. Just a tiny amount—less than a grain of rice—can be fatal.
“We are urging anyone with access to substances like fentanyl to keep them securely locked away and to seek help if they are struggling with addiction,” said a Napa County health official. “No child should lose their life to something so preventable.”
Shroyer and Schultz are currently being held in Napa County Jail. Court proceedings are expected to continue in the coming weeks. The community now waits for justice to be served in the memory of young Zayden—a life lost far too soon.
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