Austin Man Faces Murder Charge Over Fatal Fentanyl Overdose in Leander

Two separate fentanyl-related overdose deaths in Texas have led to murder charges against two individuals. Joanna Bartlett, 38, was arrested in Amarillo after a nearly yearlong investigation revealed she sold fentanyl to Sheridan Taylor, a 22-year-old who died from acute fentanyl toxicity on Christmas Day 2024 while pregnant. In Leander, Michael Woodruff, 44, was charged with murder for delivering fentanyl that resulted in the death of Steven Hancock in April 2024; Woodruff was found in possession of fentanyl and cocaine at the time of his arrest. Investigations in both cases involved cooperation among local police departments, federal agencies, and the district attorney's offices, emphasizing the commitment to hold distributors accountable under Texas law. The charges reflect Texas Penal Code provisions that classify delivery of fentanyl causing death as murder. Both cases remain significant examples of law enforcement efforts to combat fentanyl distribution and fatal overdoses in the state.