Canton woman died from accidental drug overdose, coroner reports

A 32-year-old woman from Canton named Chara Medlock was found dead in Columbus after going missing in December. The Franklin County Coroner's Office reported on Friday that her death was due to an accidental drug overdose involving fentanyl, morphine, and xylazine. The exact time of the overdose is unknown. Medlock's body was discovered in January at the home of her ex-boyfriend, Darrell Carter, who was later arrested and charged with felony abuse of a corpse. The autopsy ruled out signs of trauma or injury, and the coroner identified Medlock using her fingerprints. Her sister, Ta'Shanti Medlock, expressed doubts about the cause of death, believing there may be foul play involved. She said their family feels that Chara would not voluntarily take such dangerous drugs. They had received messages from Chara's phone even after her reported death, which raised additional suspicions. Chara's family held a memorial service for her after cremating her. They celebrated her birthday with a barbecue, honoring her favorite songs and dances. Meanwhile, Carter's trial on the abuse of a corpse charge is set for March 26. He remains in jail due to a separate warrant related to probation violations.