Drug- Likely Fentanyl continues to have negative effects on Nova Scotia

One deceased and two others in hospital after ingesting a white powder substance

September 5, 2020, Earltown, Nova Scotia…Early today at 3:05 a.m., Colchester RCMP and EHS responded to a medical emergency in Earltown where a 24-year-old Colchester County man was pronounced deceased at the scene and two other adult males were taken to hospital in life-threatening condition.

A preliminary investigation indicates all three ingested a white powder substance. Police suspect the substance could have contained fentanyl or another toxic substance. The substance was immediately seized and sent for testing.

According to Health Canada, fentanyl is a very potent opioid and a few grains can be enough to kill someone. Our primary concern is public safety and we want people to ensure they are aware of what may be circulating and to take the necessary precautions or rethink choices they may be about to make.

For more information on fentanyl, visit the Health Canada website at https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/substance-use/controlled-illegal-drugs/fentanyl.html.

Free Naloxone kits are available throughout the province for anyone at risk of overdose, or friends and family of someone at risk of overdose. These kits can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Find a pharmacy that distributes Naloxone near you at http://www.nsnaloxone.com/where-to-get-one.html.

The investigation into this incident is ongoing. Our thoughts are with the family of the victim at this difficult time. Police file # 20201290903 refers.

Fentanyl is an extremely dangerous drug which has caused the deaths of thousands of Canadians over the years. It will continue to kill drug users. Anyone who wishes to report drug dealers dealing this deadly drug or other drugs and who wish to save the lives of family and friends who use drugs can call their local police or can report drug traffickers anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 1 800 222 8477 or can submit a tip on-line at crimestoppers.ns.ca or via the P3 app.