Police Report Dramatic Increase In Drug Overdoses, Three Deaths In WNY

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JAMESTOWN, NY (WNY News Now) – New York State Police reported Tuesday a dramatic increase in drug overdoses and related deaths in the past two weeks.

From January 27 to Tuesday, troopers received reports of 94 heroin overdoses including six deaths across the region. They say a more lethal strand of heroin is being distributed in Western New York.

In the southern tier, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties have seen 20 overdoses and three deaths in the past twelve days.

Naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, has been administered 57 times during this time frame.

Police say our rural area leads to a longer medical response time, which can contribute to fatal overdoses.

If you, or a family member, friend or acquaintance, struggle with opiate use, police urge you to seek help. For more information on the resources available, visit combataddictionchq.com.