AST reports disturbing rise in overdoses, deaths In the Borough

After seemingly months of few reports of drug overdoses and deaths, it seems the pendulum has swung back. On the heels of a disturbing report of lethal batches of illegal drugs circulating through the Mat-Su Borough, now there is a report of multiple overdoses in one house, resulting in at least two deaths.

In a release from the Alaska State Troopers on Monday, AST received a report of multiple deceased individuals at a Wasilla residence.

“Investigation determined all three individuals appeared to have experienced a drug overdose. One adult female was transported to a local area hospital and two individuals ... were pronounced deceased at the scene. The investigation by Alaska State Troopers is ongoing. Next of kin have been notified.”

It is not known which substance caused this specific overdose, but AST have responded to several suspected overdoses recently in the Mat-Su Valley. A quick look at the AST dispatches online showed another death attributed to overdose last week, and remains unknown how many other deaths reported could be traced back to illicit substances while investigations are ongoing.

In a Public Safety Alert issued late last week, Troopers said they believe at least three people have died as the result of drugs, most likely containing fentanyl, as of Friday, and at least 11 other overdose emergencies have been reported to law enforcement since April 1.

“It is opioid roulette,” says Michael Carson, Chair of the Mat-Su Opioid Task Force in response to the overdose increase due in no small part to fentanyl.

“Everything is contaminated with fentanyl! Everything. Heroin, cocaine, meth, and pills. One pill can kill.”

AST and the Mat-Su Opioid Task Force remind people that while the use of illegal drugs such as heroin and methamphetamine is always discouraged, anyone who is using these, or any other illegal substances, is encouraged to take extra caution due to the high levels of potency in current circulation.

As a reminder, people can help reverse an overdose with Narcan. Last month, the Federal Drug Agency approved Narcan, 4 milligram (mg) nasal spray for over-the-counter (OTC), nonprescription, use – the first naloxone product approved for use without a prescription. This action paves the way for the life-saving medication to reverse an opioid overdose to be sold directly to consumers in places like drug stores, convenience stores, grocery stores and gas stations, as well as online.

Here in Alaska, the Alaska Department of Health’s Project Hope provides Narcan free of charge. Simply visit www.health.alaska.gov/osmap for more information.

“Everyone needs 8mg of Naloxone!” says Carson.

When the AST dispatch was shared to social media on Monday, the reactions were swift, and in just 4 hours, the post had been shared over 50 times and over 350 people reacted, meaning people are paying attention.

“Everything is laced now a days, and unfortunately addicts know this better than us. We no longer live in an era were there isn’t help and support systems. Every time you shoot up, smoke something or swallow a pill you are flipping a coin.”

Meanwhile, law enforcement throughout southcentral Alaska continue to investigate the source of the illicit narcotics. Troopers are asking anyone who has any information about drug trafficking in the Mat-Su area to call (907) 352-5401. Those wishing to remain anonymous to submit a tip on the AKtips smartphone app or online at: www.tip411.com/alerts/84949