The Sentinel reported on July 8 that there had been “three recent fentanyl overdoses in Petersburg,” with Wrangell Police Chief Gene Meek, who told the Sentinel of the Petersburg fentanyl cases, warning residents about the lethal drug’s presence in the region.

However, Petersburg Police Chief James Kerr, in a July 30 letter to the newspaper, stated: “Based upon the records, investigations and information maintained by the department, I can state unequivocally that the (Sentinel) reporting goes beyond general public safety education and contains significant inaccuracies concerning incidents alleged to have occurred in Petersburg.”

The Sentinel has asked Meek for comment on the Petersburg police chief’s assertions about the information provided by the Wrangell Police Department; Meek declined comment on Aug. 1 until he could discuss the issue with the Wrangell borough manager this week.

The Sentinel will publish a further correction, clarification or explanation when it has more information.

KSTK radio reported the same information, as provided by the Sentinel, and is awaiting further information on the facts.