Family sues Arizona rehab facility over fatal overdose of daughter during 2023 stay

PHOENIX — The family of a woman who died of a fatal overdose in a Tucson recovery center in 2023 is filing a wrongful death lawsuit.

Full Court Law and Owen Law Firm are representing the family in their legal battle against Buena Vista Drug and Alcohol Recovery Center in Tucson.

Attorneys hosted a Wednesday press conference announcing the suit over the death of 25-year-old Terria Lewis.

What led up to the fatal overdose in Tucson recovery center?

Lewis checked in to the facility for substance use treatment on Sept. 8, 2023, according to the lawsuit.

Days later, she was found unresponsive from a fentanyl overdose and given Narcan.

Lewis was rushed to Tucson Medical Center, where she stayed in the  intensive care unit for several days before dying on Sept 23.

It’s unclear where the fentanyl came from and how it got into the facility.

Mother of woman who died of fatal overdose in 2023 expresses grief

Her mother, Nakia Walker, is asking for compensation for her daughter’s death.

Walker says the lawsuit isn’t about the money, but responsibility and change.

“No words can express the pain we feel everyday as a family,” Walker said in a statement.

“Terria was the heart of our family. She was taken from us far too soon. Not by fate, but by failure.”

Why family is suing Tucson recovery center

The lawsuit, filed on behalf of Lewis’ estate, alleges that Buena Vista Drug and Alcohol Recovery Center failed to provide adequate security and supervision.

“We are seeking justice not only for the family, but we’re hoping to effect change,” Owen Law Firm attorney Amy Owen told KTAR News 92.3 FM. “Just because something happens regularly, or people say this occurrence isn’t surprising, doesn’t make it right.”

The lawsuit also accuses the Tucson recovery center of failing in its duty to maintain a safe, secure treatment environment free of illicit drugs.

Attorney Bataski Bailey with Full Court Law said Lewis and Walker were led to believe the facility conducted thorough searches of all individuals entering the premises.

“This wasn’t just a tragic accident — it was a preventable death caused by an egregious breach of duty,” Bailey said in a statement.

“Buena Vista failed to provide the very protection they promised, and in doing so, extinguished the life and future of a remarkably talented young woman.”

He called Lewis a valuable member of the community and said he wants to make sure something like this never happens again.

Buena Vista Health has locations throughout the Valley. KTAR reached out to Buena Visa Health for a statement, but did not receive a response.

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