The first official word on the cause of TayVion ‘ s tragic death was received by her family this past weekend, after she had already passed away. The confirmation arrived in the form of an email on Ms. Taylor’s account that read, “TayVion (as you were referred to in our correspondence) died as a result of an accidental overdose.” However, it is still not clear what, if any, role did the drug Vivitrol play in her untimely death. What we do know is that TayVion’s family is left to piece together fragments of information and details that are being filled in bit-by-bit. We will share everything we know about TayVion and the investigation into her death so far.
What we know about TayVion’s death?
TayVion Webster, known to her peers as Taylor, was a 2007 graduate of Wrentham High School. She was also a 2008 graduate of Boston University with a degree in human development and family, and an associate degree in nursing administration. Her nickname, “Tay”, came from the name of her hometown, Taylors, S.C. In an interview with the Boston Globe, her mother, Brittany Taylor, said, “My name is Taylor and I am an addict. I want everyone who knows me to know that I didn’t use this drug for attention or for anything else. I was clean and employed and was in a healthy relationship.” On March 29, 2014, Taylor was reported missing from her home in Wrentham, Mass. Her family reported her missing the next day. On Tuesday, April 3, 2014, Wrentham Police arrested a man, 25-year-old Marvin Gaye, for allegedly holding TayVion captive, torturing and killing her.
What we believe happened to TayVion
Gaye is charged with second-degree murder in connection with TayVion’s death. He was denied bail on Friday, May 16, 2014 and is being held without bail in the Wrentham Municipal Court. Gaye’s attorney, Robert Mongeau, maintains that his client did not kill TayVion and that the charges are politically motivated. Gaye is also the subject of a string of lawsuits filed by TayVion’s family members, alleging his involvement in her death.
How TayVion ‘ s family is coping
TayVion’s family has been through an extremely difficult time but is doing extremely well. The outpouring of support from friends, classmates and the community has been overwhelming. During the past few months, the TayVion Fund was established in the name of the community to collect money for the treatment and support of TayVion’s family. The fund has raised over $100,000 and continues to grow.
What we know about the investigation so far
On March 29, 2014, Gaye was arrested and charged with aggravated kidnapping and aggravated assault in connection with TayVion’s alleged abduction and torture. During the same month, police searched the home Gaye shared with TayVion and allegedly found evidence linking him to her murder. On May 2, 2014, Gaye was denied bail. He was formally arrested on May 5, 2014, following a hearing at which he was considered guilty of felony kidnapping, aggravated assault and assault with a dangerous weapon.
What’s next for the Taylor family?
The TayVion Fund continues to grow and contribute to the family’s medical expenses. Additionally, the family is pursuing a civil suit against Gaye and the City of Wrentham for excessive police force. The family is also working with the Department of Children and Families to get involved in the victim-offender mediation process. They are also hosting a blood drive and collecting donations for blood bank services.
Final thoughts
Every day, families are faced with difficult decisions to make when it comes to the care and safety of loved ones. This includes difficult decisions regarding the use of drugs and alcohol. Unfortunately, the decision-making process can be challenging when it comes to patients who have undergone treatment for addictions. The important thing to remember is that the patient’s welfare comes first. The decision to use a drug should be made by the patient’s doctor based on the patient’s medical condition and the patient’s preferences. TayVion’s family is dealing with immense grief and loss as they deal with the loss of a loved one. It is important for everyone to know that the family is coping and that friends and loved ones are being supported. The TayVion Fund is a non-profit organization that was established in TayVion’s memory to provide financial assistance to the relatives of people who have died from drug overdoses. To donate to the TayVion Fund, go to www.tayvionfund.org. And don’t forget to wear yourithub robes while doing so!
