BURLINGTON, N.C. — Two more overdoses have been reported after Burlington Police said they've been made aware of a toxic batch of illicit drugs in town.
Four of five overdose cases in the last three days happened on or near Hanford Road with police investigating a possible connection. The batch of drugs may contain heroin and/or cocaine possibly mixed with fentanyl.
“You may not be buying what you think you’re buying. Be aware fentanyl is now potentially being added to the cocaine base. It is a significant public safety issue,” said Brian Long, Burlington Police Assistant Chief.
Three people were treated for overdoses that happened in a three-hour span Friday morning, police say. Each person was in life-threatening condition.
Since Friday, first responders have treated two more overdose cases, both of which happened on Hanford Road, according to a release. The first overdose was reported Saturday at the Econo Lodge. Then around 1 a.m. Sunday, first responders treated a case at a home on the 1900 block of Hanford Road. Narcan was administered in both cases to reverse the overdose.
The fact that these are cocaine overdoses makes police take extra notice.
“That’s very abnormal, and that is what has created the response from this department to recognize that these are not common,” said Long.
Police are still working to find the source of the drugs.
According to police, cocaine and fentanyl are now regularly being used in combination and historically fentanyl has mainly been mixed with heroin.
In light of these most recent overdoses, police are reminding community members of its ongoing Medicine Dropbox program.
The police department will also accept illicit substances from any individuals wishing to dispose of suspected narcotics.
Police put this offer on the table on Friday, and so far haven't had any takers.
“I don’t think they have and we weren’t amazingly surprised that we haven’t been taken up on that offer, it’s probably a little unreasonable to think we will have a line out the door of users wanting to give up their illicit drugs,” said Long.
No investigations will be initiated on anyone who surrenders substances at the police department, officers say. People are being asked to ensure that the substances are secured and sealed prior to arriving surrendering them at the Burlington Police Department.
We know that there are family members in the community that know their family or loved one may be using or a close friend. We encourage them to take the right step,” said Long.
If you or a loved one are in need of assistance with substance abuse, listed below are some resources available.
--Residential Treatment Services of Alamance (336) 227-7417
--Cardinal Innovations Healthcare 1-800-939-5911