NORFOLK, VA – Norfolk police have launched a homicide investigation following the death of 81-year-old Cleo Loizides at Commonwealth Senior Living at Leigh Hall, where court documents allege she was strangled by her grandson with her daughter aiding in the attack.
Cleo Loizides was discovered unresponsive with strangulation marks on her neck, according to police. She was pronounced dead upon the arrival of first responders at the senior living facility.
Her daughter, 53-year-old Heather Cummings of Hobart, Indiana, and her grandson, 24-year-old Clifton Cummings of Norfolk, have been arrested. Both Heather and Clifton Cummings have charged with second-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder. During the investigation, both suspects reportedly confessed to their roles in the killing, although documents did not disclose a motive.
Allegations in the criminal complaints suggest Heather Cummings restrained her mother by holding her hands and telling her to “let go,” while Clifton Cummings used his bag strap to strangle her.
Following their court appearance on Friday, Clifton Cummings was ordered to undergo competency and sanity evaluations. Heather Cummings, who has been diagnosed with various health issues and appeared in court in a wheelchair, was denied bond. Both have their preliminary hearings scheduled for September 23.
Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Victoria Kapper noted that Loizides was last seen alive on June 30, approximately six hours before she was found dead by a facility employee.
Commonwealth Senior Living has cooperated with the police investigation and expressed their condolences, offering emotional support to their staff during this challenging period.
The attorneys for the accused have not provided comments on the allegations.