Twenty-three-year-old Jade Youngblood died tragically on Thanksgiving Day 2023 after her father, Joshua Youngblood, allegedly provided her and a friend with fentanyl—then sexually assaulted her unconscious friend as Jade lay dying nearby.
According to Houston police and federal agents, the incident took place at Jade’s apartment in the Alief area. Authorities say Joshua Youngblood, who has since been charged with murder and sexual assault, brought the drugs to his daughter and her friend under the guise of bonding—but with sinister intent.
After consuming the fentanyl-laced substances, both women lost consciousness. Rather than seek help, investigators allege that Joshua assaulted Jade’s unconscious friend while his daughter was succumbing to the effects of the powerful drug.
At a press conference, Jade’s grieving mother addressed the horrific circumstances and spoke directly to her daughter’s alleged killer—who was also her biological father.
“He’s a vile person who committed a heinous crime,” she said, sharing that Joshua had only reappeared in Jade’s life intermittently, often when it served his own purposes. “Jade always craved her father’s attention,” her mother added. “She would do anything for him—and that’s what makes this even more heartbreaking.”
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has confirmed its involvement in the investigation.
The Houston Division’s Acting Special Agent described the case as one of the most disturbing they’ve encountered, involving both narcotics and violent sexual abuse.
Jade’s death highlights the devastating impact of fentanyl abuse and the deep trauma of familial betrayal.
Loved ones and community members have taken to social media to mourn the loss of a young woman described as kind, trusting, and full of potential.
