NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — The death of an 81-year-old grandmother at a Norfolk senior living facility has been ruled a homicide, and her daughter and grandson are now facing charges. On Monday, Heather Cummings, 53, and her son Cliffton Cummings, 24, appeared in Norfolk court for their preliminary hearings.
On June 30, Norfolk police responded to Commonwealth Senior Living on Poplar Hall Drive after a report of an unresponsive patient. The woman was later identified as Cleo A. Loizides, mother and grandmother to Heather and Cliffton. Both were subsequently charged with second-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder.
Authorities say the suspects confessed to their involvement in the crime. In her confession, Heather Cummings stated that she held her mother down while urging her to “just let go, it’s for the best,” as her son, Cliffton, strangled the victim using a strap from his bag. It was also revealed that the pair had traveled from Indiana to Virginia to carry out the murder.
On Monday, both Heather and Cliffton waived their right to the preliminary hearings. The charges have now been sent to a certified grand jury for further review, with additional details to be presented in early January.