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There have been 1,380 overdose deaths in B.C. this year: Coroner

B.C. seeing four drug overdose deaths per day, according to latest data from January to November

Illicit drug overdoses were the cause behind 1,380 deaths so far this year in B.C., according to the Coroners Service.

That’s roughly four deaths per day between January and November.

The new data detailing the number of fatal overdoses, released Thursday, highlights the continuing concern of illicit fentanyl wreaking havoc on all corners of the province. This year, there has only been one less death than in 2017, when B.C. saw the most fatal overdoses in its history.

READ MORE: Opioid crisis may be shortening British Columbians’ life expectancy

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According to finished investigations and autopsies performed between January and September, fentanyl was found in 85 per cent of all deaths, compared to 82 per cent in 2017.

Rates of overdoses were highest in the Lower Mainland, Northern Interior, Thompson Cariboo and Okanagan.

Vancouver, Surrey and Victoria have seen the most deaths, totalling 361, 195 and 85, respectively.

READ MORE: New in-depth report sheds light on who in BC is dying of drug overdoses

READ MORE: Most fatal overdose victims did not have recent police contact, Stats Canada data shows

No deaths occurred at safe consumption or overdose prevention sites.


@ashwadhwani
ashley.wadhwani@bpdigital.ca

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About the Author: Ashley Wadhwani-Smith

I began my journalistic journey at Black Press Media as a community reporter in my hometown of Maple Ridge, B.C.
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