AST warns of lethal heroin in the Mat-Su

In a dispatch sent out by the Alaska State Troopers, law enforcement warned that a lethal batch of heroin is currently circulating in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, causing a rise in overdose events. At least six people are believed to have died, and as many as 17 other reported overdose emergencies, as a result of this suspected batch of heroin.

“We did notice an increase recently of overdoses that caused us to put out the notice,” said AST spokesman Austin McDaniel.

In the same dispatch, residents are reminded that while illegal drug use is discouraged, anyone engaging in illegal drug use in the Mat-Su area should take extra caution due to the dangerous levels of potency associated with this particular batch.

Additionally, residents are reminded that the Alaska Department of Health and Social Service’s Project Hope provides Narcan free of charge, which is shown to help reverse an overdose.

Troopers encouraged anyone with information about drug trafficking in the Mat-Su to contact troopers at 907-352-5401, submit a tip online or through the AKtips smartphone app.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Katie Stavick at katie.stavick@frontiersman.com