NORFOLK, Va. — Two people were arrested for murdering an 81-year-old Norfolk woman who was found dead at a senior living home, police said.
Heather Cummings, a 53-year-old from Norfolk, and Clifton Cummings, a 24-year-old from Norfolk, have been charged with second-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder. Court documents and an obituary say Heather Cummings was Cleo Loizides' daughter and Clifton Cummings was her grandson. The two reportedly traveled from Indiana to commit the act.
According to the Norfolk Police Department, the investigation began June 30 around 11:55 p.m. when police officers responded to the Commonwealth Senior Living at 890 Poplar Hall Drive for the report of an unresponsive patient.
After first responders got there, the patient, Cleo Loizides, was pronounced dead.
The Norfolk Police Department said the suspects' charges came after the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner ruled that Loizides' death was by homicide. A criminal complaint says the woman was found with markings around her neck, suggesting she was strangled. The report says Heather held her mother down and said, "just let go, it's for the best." It adds Clifton strangled his grandmother with the strap of his bag.
In a statement to 13News Now, Commonwealth Senior Living officials said, "Commonwealth Senior Living at Leigh Hall is aware of the homicide charges against the daughter and grandson of one of our residents who died on June 30.
Our staff first contacted authorities following protocols when the death occurred. We have cooperated with police throughout their investigation. This is now a police matter, and inquiries about the investigation should be directed to Norfolk City police. Commonwealth Senior Living will support prosecution and accountability to the full extent of the law.
This has been a difficult time for our staff in the community, and we are offering them emotional workplace support as we continue to navigate this terrible tragedy."
Judi Evans McArthur worked as a model with Loizides in the late 1960’s. She kept copies of her friend's headshots, saying they brought back good memories.
"She was funny, she had a great sense of humor," McArthur said of her friend. "[She was] very quiet, very gentle."
McArthur found out about Loizides' death in the paper, saying she reads the obituary section "every day. I've always lived here, so it's nice to know when someone passes away if you want to pay your respects."
However, finding out her friend was allegedly murdered came as a shock. McArthur explained, "it's very sad, just very sad. I can't imagine what would cause a person to do that."
McArthur added Loizides' late husband, John, a former employee of WVEC, took her portfolio photos. "I just know it would have been really sad for him to know their daughter did that."
Both suspects are being held at the Norfolk City Jail without bond.