At least five people have died in Skagit County in the last week from fentanyl-related overdoses, according to Skagit County officials.
Emergency Medical Services have responded to nearly 20 overdose calls, resulting in nine overdose deaths since Jan. 1.
The Skagit County Interlocal Drug Enforcement Unit is concerned that “killer” batches of fentanyl have been laced into common street drugs like methamphetamine and cocaine. The opioid may burn with a blueish tint, but not always.
“The drug cartels have started supplying increasingly powdered fentanyl directly into our communities,” said Tobin Meyer, commander of the drug enforcement unit. “Fentanyl is dominating the drug market in Skagit County, the state and the nation, and everyone has been impacted by this.”
SCIDEU is working with Skagit County Public Health and Integrated Outreach Services to notify those directly affected.
Skagit County EMS Director Josh Pelonio issued guidance for people who come across a suspected fentanyl overdose. He recommends people don’t run away, they call 911 and if available, administer Naloxone spray through the person’s nose. If the person isn’t breathing, start CPR and do chest compressions until EMS arrives or the person wakes up.
[ Read more: What to do if you see a suspected overdose ]
A significant portion of the illicit drug supply in Skagit County is made up of counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl, according to federal, state and local drug seizure statistics. Powdered fentanyl mixed with other illicit substances has also increased.
In 2024, there were 33 confirmed fatal overdoses in Skagit County, according to Peter Miterko, the community health coordinator at Skagit County Public Health. Preliminary data also shows that opioid overdoses decreased 13% in 2024 compared to 2023.
Annie Todd is CDN’s criminal justice/enterprise reporter; reach her at annietodd@cascadiadaily.com; 360-922-3090 ext. 130.