Medical Examiner Rules Teen’s Death a Suicide; Case Highlights Ongoing Concerns for Youth in State Care

Update: The Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has ruled the death of 16-year-old Kanaiyah Ward a suicide due to diphenhydramine intoxication. Ward was found on September 22 at a Baltimore hotel while in the care of the Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS). This update follows our earlier coverage and confirms the official cause and manner of death.

Medical Examiner Rules Teen’s Death a Suicide; Case Highlights Ongoing Concerns for Youth in State Care

The Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed this week that 16-year-old Kanaiyah Ward died by suicide as a result of diphenhydramine intoxication. The teen was found unresponsive in a room at the Residence Inn by Marriott on North Wolfe Street in Baltimore, a temporary hotel placement arranged by the Maryland Department of Human Services. Her death occurred on September 22 and was initially classified as “questionable” pending toxicology and autopsy results.

Diphenhydramine, the active ingredient found in many common allergy and sleep-aid medications, can be lethal in large doses. According to officials familiar with the case, there were no immediate signs of foul play at the scene. The medical examiner’s report, issued in early October, formally ruled the case a suicide. (Sources: WBAL-TV, CBS Baltimore, FOX45 News)

System Under Scrutiny

The ruling has reignited scrutiny of Maryland’s child welfare system and its reliance on hotel placements for children in foster care. State officials have long acknowledged that placing youth in hotels is far from ideal but, in some cases, has been used as a stopgap when no appropriate foster or group home is available. Governor Wes Moore called Ward’s death “heartbreaking and unacceptable,” saying the state must do better to protect vulnerable youth. (Source: WBAL-TV)

The Department of Human Services released a statement emphasizing that it continues to work to reduce and ultimately eliminate hotel placements. According to the agency, the number of children living in hotels has dropped from 59 in 2023 to 18 as of September 2025. “Even one child in a hotel is one too many,” the department said in its public statement.

Family and Community Reactions

Ward’s family has demanded answers about the care and supervision she received in the days leading up to her death. They have called for greater transparency and accountability from DHS, noting that Kanaiyah had dreams and plans for her future despite the instability she faced. Advocates across the state have echoed those calls, urging an independent review of all hotel placements and stronger safeguards for youth under state custody.

Legislative and Reform Efforts

In response to Ward’s death, lawmakers have begun discussing potential legislation known informally as “Kanaiyah’s Law,” which would prohibit or strictly limit the use of hotels for children in foster care. Supporters of the proposal say the state must provide greater oversight, crisis services, and mental health support for youth placed in temporary housing. (Sources: WBAL-TV, CBS Baltimore)

Child welfare experts note that the factors leading to hotel placements are complex, often involving a shortage of trained foster parents, a lack of trauma-informed care facilities, and challenges in serving youth with significant emotional needs. Addressing these gaps, they say, will require coordinated action between state agencies, community organizations, and mental health providers.

Youth Mental Health and Access to Support

Ward’s death also draws attention to the ongoing mental health crisis among young people—particularly those who have experienced trauma, instability, or time in foster care. National studies have shown that youth in foster care face higher risks of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation compared to their peers. Experts stress that prevention efforts must include early intervention, consistent access to therapy, and strong mentoring relationships.

In Maryland, a number of community-based programs have expanded to support youth mental health in the wake of similar tragedies. Local organizations and county crisis teams are working to increase outreach in schools, foster homes, and residential facilities to ensure children in care have someone to talk to before a crisis occurs.

Community Voices: The Blue Ribbon Project’s Perspective

The Blue Ribbon Project, a Maryland-based nonprofit that supports children in foster care and survivors of child abuse is reaffirming its commitment to child safety and mental health awareness. The organization also encourages the public to educate themselves on youth mental health warning signs and to speak up if they believe a child may be in danger or distress. Through community programs, training, and outreach, The Blue Ribbon Project works to connect families and volunteers with local resources that can make a difference.

If You or Someone You Know Needs Help

If you or someone you know is struggling or thinking about suicide, help is available 24 hours a day. Call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 for immediate support, or text HELLO to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. For youth in Maryland, local mobile crisis teams and community behavioral health agencies offer confidential, in-person support.

For additional information on recognizing warning signs and supporting youth mental wellness, visit The Blue Ribbon Project’s online resources: “Recognizing Suicide Warning Signs” and “Talking to Youth About Mental Health.”

Sources: WBAL-TV, CBS Baltimore, FOX45 News.