MTV’s Whitney Purvis on Suicide Watch Following Involuntary Manslaughter Charge in Overdose Case

MTV star Whitney Purvis, who appeared on the reality show 16 And Pregnant, is on suicide watch as she is in prison over a fatal February 17 drug overdose she was formally charged with on Monday

Former 16 and Pregnant star Whitney Purvis is on suicide watch in a Georgia jail after being charged with involuntary manslaughter in connection to a fatal drug overdose. The 33-year-old reality TV alum is being closely monitored by medical personnel at the facility, where she is also reportedly undergoing drug detox.

Authorities say Purvis provided the fatal dose of a drug mixture that led to the death of 37-year-old chef John Mark Harris on February 17. According to court documents, Purvis allegedly distributed a substance labeled as "Tranq"—a combination of Xylazine and Fentanyl—that directly caused Harris’ death by overdose.

Purvis is seen in her episode of 16 And Pregnant which aired in July 2009

Purvis was formally charged on Monday with involuntary manslaughter, distribution of a controlled substance, and use of a communication device to facilitate a drug-related felony.

In the weeks following Harris’s death, Purvis posted a heartfelt message on the website of the funeral home that handled his arrangements, expressing regret that she missed his service and calling him a beloved friend. She described their deep connection, bonded through their mutual love of cooking and shared struggles.

“Thank you for being such a great friend to me and always making me feel beautiful and cared for,” she wrote. “You’ve come to my rescue on many occasions and saved me over the years.”

John Mark Harris is a 37-year-old chef who tragically died as result of a drug overdose, authorities said

Harris, a chef at Barnsley Gardens in North Georgia, was praised by Purvis for his kindness, honesty, and wisdom. She detailed fond memories of their time together, including late-night conversations, shared meals, and emotional support. “I’ll miss your amazing cooking. I’ll miss sitting outside, smoking camel crush cigs with you. I’ll never forget you,” she added.

The tragic developments come on the heels of another devastating loss for Purvis. On June 2, her 16-year-old son, Weston Owen Gosa, passed away. Purvis announced the news in a tearful tribute on social media, writing, “My beautiful son, Weston, has passed away. He was only 16 years old. Life is so cruel and unfair. This is really my worst nightmare come true.”

MTV star Whitney Purvis, who appeared on the reality show 16 And Pregnant, is on suicide watch as she is in prison over a fatal February 17 drug overdose she was formally charged with on Monday. Pictured in her mug shot

She expressed deep grief and disbelief, calling her son “perfect” and “the young man I was so proud of.” The cause of Weston’s death has not been publicly disclosed.

Purvis, who gained national attention in 2009 through MTV’s 16 and Pregnant, has had previous legal troubles, including a 2015 arrest for allegedly assaulting her ex-boyfriend and Weston’s father with a broom handle. Her social media presence reflects a turbulent year marked by personal tragedies and emotional trauma.

As Purvis awaits further legal proceedings, jail officials say she remains under medical care due to suicidal ideation and substance withdrawal. Law enforcement continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Harris’s overdose and Purvis’s alleged involvement.

Purvis penned an emotional statement in memory of her late friend - whose death she was subsequently charged in