Florida investigators have launched a homicide investigation following a tragic incident involving two teenagers at a Fort Myers restaurant. One of the teenagers, a 19-year-old named Ava Hulett, was out with a group at Pelican Larry's Raw Bar and Grill when she and at least one friend experienced medical emergencies. Ava later returned home but was found unresponsive by her family, and tragically passed away shortly after being released from the hospital.
The Lee County Sheriff's Office responded to a call for assistance at the restaurant and later followed up at Ava's home, where they found her lifeless on the bedroom floor. Despite launching a homicide investigation, authorities have stated that there is no evidence implicating the restaurant staff in the incident.
According to the family's attorney, Anthony Rickman, it is believed that if poisoning was involved, it may have been the result of an intentional act by a third party. Lab tests and toxicology results are still pending as investigators work to uncover the circumstances surrounding Ava's tragic death.
This devastating loss comes after the Hulett family previously experienced the accidental shooting death of Ava's older brother in 2019. The family is currently mourning the loss of both children, a situation that no parent should ever have to endure.
Ava's mother, Meagan Hulett, expressed disbelief that her daughter would have taken her own life or knowingly ingested any harmful substances. She shared that Ava was conscious after the incident and expressed fear of dying, indicating that it was not a deliberate act on her part.
The family's attorney mentioned that the mother's Facebook post, which has since been removed, raised concerns about other reported overdoses at the bar. The entire situation has been described as traumatic, sad, and heartbreaking, highlighting the immense pain and suffering the Hulett family is currently facing.
