Owensboro Man Arrested Following Child’s Methamphetamine Exposure and Subsequent Drug Seizure

OWENSBORO, Ky. (May 16, 2026) – An Owensboro man is facing multiple felony charges following an investigation that began when a three-year-old child was hospitalized in critical condition due to methamphetamine exposure.

​On the evening of May 16, 2026, Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 16 was contacted by Owensboro Regional Health Hospital regarding a three-year-old child who tested positive for methamphetamine. Due to the severity of the child’s condition, the victim was transported to Norton’s Children’s Hospital in Louisville for specialized care.

​During the initial investigation at the hospital, troopers detained the child’s father, Gary D. Walker (43) of Owensboro. While being processed, Walker was found to have synthetic urine concealed in his undergarments, allegedly intended to alter a drug test. A subsequent search of his vehicle yielded a small metal vial containing a white residue.

​Based on the findings of the initial arrest, KSP troopers executed a search warrant in the early hours of May 17, 2026, at Walker’s residence on Danberry Street in Owensboro. During the search, investigators located approximately five grams of methamphetamine, marijuana, and various drug paraphernalia.

Gary D. Walker has been charged with the following:

Criminal Simulation, 2nd Degree

​Possession of a Controlled Substance, 1st Degree (1st Offense)

​Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possess

​Possession of a Controlled Substance, 1st Degree (1st Offense – Methamphetamine)

​Possession of Marijuana

​Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possess

Walker was lodged in the Daviess County Detention Center. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the child’s exposure to methamphetamine remains active and ongoing.

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