Father charged in death of infant son who was exposed to meth in Fairview Heights

An arrest warrant has been issued for a Fairview Heights man charged in connection with the 2024 death of his 3-month-son, who died after being exposed to methamphetamine.

Shannon L. Williams Jr., 24, was charged with endangering the life or health of a child/causing death, according to a news release from the Fairview Heights Police Department on Monday.

Williams had not been arrested as of Monday. Anyone with information about Williams’ whereabouts is asked to call the police department at 618-489-2100.

The child, who is identified by the initials “A.W.,” died on May 26, 2024.

First responders were called to the Winchester Place Apartments that day regarding an “unresponsive infant.”

“Despite immediate medical aid and continued life-saving efforts, the child was pronounced deceased shortly after arriving at a local hospital,” the news release states.

“After an extensive investigation, including multiple interviews, search warrants, laboratory analyses, and toxicology testing, it was determined that the infant had been exposed to methamphetamine, which directly caused his death.”

Methamphetamine is a stimulant that is considered to be highly addictive, according to a report by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. “High doses may result in death from stroke, heart attack, or multiple organ problems caused by overheating,” the report states.

The felony charge against Williams was filed on Nov. 21 by the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s Office.