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Reality TV star Whitney Purvis accused of ‘involuntary manslaughter’ in connection to friend’s overdose death

The star’s 16-year-old son also died last month.
Grieving reality star Whitney Purvis who lost her son, 16, charged with ‘involuntary manslaughter’ in connection to overdose Credit: Instagram/Floyd County Sheriff’s Office

Reality TV star Whitney Purvis accused of ‘involuntary manslaughter’ in connection to friend’s overdose death

The star’s 16-year-old son also died last month.

Former US reality TV star Whitney Purvis has been charged with involuntary manslaughter in connection to a fatal overdose of a friend earlier this year, according to a report in Deadline.

Purvis, who rose to fame on MTV’s hit show 16 And Pregnant, is being held at Floyd County Jail near Rome, Georgia, in connection with the death of John Mark Harris.

According to the report, Purvis is accused of distributing a combination of fentanyl and xylazine — known as “tranq” — that led to Harris’ overdose death in February.

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Purvis is also being charged with distribution of a controlled substance and use of a communication device to commit a felony involving controlled substances.

In his obituary, Harris was described as a chef and graduate of the Darlington School in Rome, Georgia.

Former reality TV star Whitney Purvis has been charged with involuntary manslaughter in connection to a fatal overdose, according to a report in Deadline. Credit: Floyd County Sheriff’s Office

“John Mark never met a stranger and had a way of caring for those who crossed his path,” his obituary read.

“Whether it was bandaging a wound, trips to the airport, or a place to lay their heads for a time, he was willing to lend a hand.

“He loved fiercely and would do anything he could for one of his friends.”

In May, Purvis announced the death of her teenage son, Weston, at age 16.

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While an official cause of death has not been made public, Weston had battled several medical conditions including diabetes.

“This is so hard to write. My beautiful son, Weston, has passed away. He was only 16 years old,” Purvis wrote on Facebook.

“Life is so cruel and unfair. I just don’t understand.

“Oh, my baby is gone and I don’t know what to do with myself. He was so perfect. This is really my worst nightmare come true.

“How do you go on in life after losing a child? I’m in disbelief, this cannot be happening. I don’t want it to be real. I would do anything just to hold him. Words just can’t describe the pain I am feeling.

“I love you so much, Weston Owen Gosa. God, I love you so much. You are my heart. I was so proud of the young man you were becoming.

“I just can’t go on without you. Rest in Peace, my angel. You are gone too soon. April 2, 2009 to June 2, 2025.”

Purvis announced the death of her son Weston, 16, in a heartbreaking tribute to the teenager in May. Credit: Facebook

Weston was born during the first season of 16 And Pregnant.

His father Weston Lewis Gosa Sr, who had been Purvis’ boyfriend at the time, shared his own heartbreaking tribute.

“You’ll forever be my lil boy,” Gosa wrote.

“I’ll live the rest of my days with you in my heart. God, I wish this was all just a bad dream.

“You’re free now from all the complications you had to deal with for the last six years or so. Fly high baby boy, daddy loves you more than you could have ever known.”

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