Whitney Purvis, known for her starring role in MTV’s 2009 documentary series “16 and Pregnant,” was arrested last week. She is currently charged with felony involuntary manslaughter. The 33-year-old reality star now is facing extra charges stemming from the two drug-related incidents. This extraordinary turn of events follows the dramatic life and death ordeals of her son, Weston Owen Gosa Jr. He died at the young age of 16 years old.
While there has been no public disclosure of the specific crime that led to Purvis’ arrest, the affidavit outlining the charges claims that Purvis has engaged in criminal activity. She has been charged with involuntary manslaughter. She has been charged with using a communication device in commission of a felony involving controlled substances and manufacture/deliver controlled substance.
It was through her episode of “16 and Pregnant” that Purvis first gained national recognition. The series documented her journey as a pregnant adolescent mother with her now ex–boyfriend, Weston Lewis Gosa. It touched on their experiences with lack of financial stability, social isolation, and being able to pursue education uninterrupted. The young couple wanted to find their own way by moving out of Purvis’s grandmother’s house, where they lived during the duration of the series.
On June 2, 2023, Purvis posted on social media about the tragic death of her son. In her emotional Instagram post, she navigated a deep sadness and a sense of unreality. She grieved the death of Weston Owen Gosa Jr., born in April 2009.
“This is so hard to write. My beautiful son, Weston has passed away. He was only 16 years old. Life is so cruel and unfair. I just don’t understand. Oh my baby is gone and I don’t know what to do with myself. He was so perfect. This is really my worst nightmare come true. How do you go on in life after losing a child?” – Whitney Purvis
Purvis has been posting images on social media in the year since her son’s murder. She shares her memories of time with him and is honest about her lingering depression.
In a separate post, she further articulated her feelings of loss:
“I’m in disbelief, this cannot be happening. I don’t want it to be real. I would do anything just to hold him. Words just can’t describe the pain I am feeling.” – Whitney Purvis
As the investigation continues, many are left questioning the circumstances surrounding Weston’s death and the implications of Purvis’s recent legal troubles. Meanwhile, as the community and her followers still await news on this developing story, Tori’s future hangs in the balance.
