After three recent fentanyl overdoses in Petersburg, Wrangell Police Chief Gene Meek is warning residents about the lethal drug’s arrival in the region and urging vigilance in identifying suspicious substances.
He declined to comment on the specific nature of the Petersburg cases but said the fentanyl was laced into other narcotics. Because of this, he said, it is highly likely the victims had no idea they were consuming the deadly synthetic opioid.
Fentanyl is a manufactured drug normally used to treat severe pain. According to information provided by the chief, it is roughly 50 times more powerful than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine.
“Everyone should be wary of unusual substances either in powder or pill form,” Meek said. “In many locations in the Lower 48, fentanyl has been appearing as unusually colored or unusually shaped pills.”
He said the threat is no longer confined to traditional opioids. Fentanyl is increasingly mixed into a wide variety of illicit drugs, including cocaine and methamphetamine.
Recognizing a fentanyl overdose quickly can mean the difference between life and death, he said. In response to the threat, first responders are equipping themselves with emergency treatments, and looking for ways to expand access across the community.
“All emergency personnel are aware of the effects of fentanyl,” Meek said.
