A devastating wave of seven overdose deaths struck the communities of Tonawanda, Lackawanna, and Buffalo on Monday, shocking Erie County.
According to the Erie County Department of Health, the fatalities are believed to be linked to an exceptionally potent form of fentanyl, underscoring the ongoing opioid crisis in the region.
Initial findings from the Erie County Medical Examiner’s Office revealed traces of suspected cocaine at each scene, whether in crack or powder form. As per to the source spectrumlocalnews
County Executive Mark Poloncarz conveyed the severity of the situation, cautioning that even Narcan may not be sufficient to reverse the effects of what could be rapid and lethal overdoses.
Christopher Horvatits from the Erie County Sheriff’s Office echoed the grim confirmation of the deaths, highlighting their tragic occurrence within a condensed six-hour timeframe—three in Tonawanda, three in Buffalo, and one in Lackawanna.
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The victims’ ages ranged from early 40s to early 60s, with two scenes involving multiple fatalities.
As of June 13, the Erie County Medical Examiner’s Office has recorded 85 confirmed opioid-related deaths this year alone.
The sudden surge in fatalities underscores the urgent need for enhanced community support and intervention to combat substance abuse and prevent further tragedies.
Authorities continue to investigate the incidents to determine the exact circumstances and sources of the lethal substances involved.
The local community remains in mourning as officials work tirelessly to address the devastating impact of this deadly spike in overdoses.