On Feb. 12, 2026, around 5:30 p.m., Durham, NC, police responded to a home where Andrea Faust, 41, allegedly killed one of her children under 5 and left another (brother, also under 5) unresponsive. One child died at the hospital; the survivor is expected to fully recover. Andrea faces charges of first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder.
Husband’s Court Plea
During Andrea’s virtual first appearance on Feb. 16 (from hospital bed after self-harm attempt), husband Eric Faust begged her: “Andrea, I’m begging you, please no more attempts to harm yourself. Work with your doctors.” He promised updates on the surviving child and described it as a “complete mental health crisis,” insisting she was a “tremendous mother” whose actions weren’t herself. He urged public mental health checks.
Charges and Court Status
- No bond granted; ordered mental health services in custody.
- Next court date: March 3, 2026 (Durham County).
Community Reaction
Neighbors called it “unbelievable,” praising Andrea as an “awesome, caring” mother under recent stress who “loved her children very much” (per WTVD, WNCN, WRAL). Highlights mental health’s role in family tragedies.
Details from local NC outlets; case active—avoid speculation. Interested in NC mental health resources or similar cases?
