NORFOLK, VA. (THECOUNT) — In a shocking case unfolding in Norfolk, Virginia, investigators allege that Indiana woman, Heather Cummings, held down her 81-year-old mother while her son, Clifton Cummings, used a bag strap to strangle his grandmother, Cleo Loizides, at a senior living facility.
Loizides was found unresponsive in her room at Commonwealth Senior Living at Leigh Hall and was pronounced dead when first responders arrived. Marks on her neck were consistent with strangulation, according to court documents.
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Initially classified as undetermined, Loizides’ death is now being investigated as a homicide. Police have arrested her daughter, Heather Cummings, 53, of Hobart, Indiana, and her grandson, Clifton Cummings, 24, of Norfolk, on charges of second-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder.
Confessions from both Heather and Clifton were obtained, although no motive has been disclosed. “Just let go, it’s for the best,” Heather Cummings allegedly told her mother while holding her down, according to the complaints filed with the Norfolk court.
Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Victoria Kapper noted in court that Loizides was last seen alive around 5 p.m. on June 30. She was found pale and cold to the touch by an employee making rounds at 11:55 p.m. Medics were called, but she was already deceased.
A judge denied bond for Heather Cummings and granted a request from Clifton Cummings’ attorney for competency and sanity evaluations for his client.
Heather Cummings, who appeared in court in a wheelchair, has been diagnosed with various health problems. She had come to Norfolk two weeks prior to help her mother and had been staying with her son at a home owned by Loizides.
In emails to The Associated Press, both attorneys declined to comment on behalf of their clients. Preliminary hearings are scheduled for September 23.
An obituary for Loizides highlights her glamorous career as a model in the 1960s and later work in banking. She met her husband at the Little Theatre of Norfolk, where she volunteered.
Commonwealth Senior Living officials stated they have cooperated with the investigation and are providing emotional support to their staff during this difficult time.
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