(CFJC Today/File photo).

By Aaron Schulze

Overdose Numbers

Kamloops saw 15 more overdose deaths in August and September, already second deadliest year in city’s history

Nov 9, 2021 | 9:19 AM

KAMLOOPS — B.C. Coroners Service reported 15 more deaths due to illicit drug toxicity in Kamloops in August and September 2021, making this year the second deadliest for overdoses in the city’s history.

According to the latest report released on Tuesday (Nov. 9), Kamloops has had 50 total overdose deaths between January and September 2021, tied with Kelowna for sixth most among B.C. cities. Vancouver has the most overdose deaths at 355, nearly double the amount of second place Surrey.

Across B.C., the Coroners Service reveals that 333 lives were lost to suspected illicit drug toxicity in August and September, raising the yearly number to 1,534, making 2021 the third deadliest year in B.C.’s history with three months of numbers remaining.

Chief Coroner Lisa Lapointe stated urgent action is needed, such broader access to safe supply, more readily available and efficient drug-checking services, and a shift from law-enforcement focus to a health-centred approach.

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“Our province is in the sixth year of this public health emergency, and the death rate due to toxic drugs has never been higher,” Lapointe said. “The province’s application to the federal government to decriminalize possession of illicit drugs for personal use is an essential step to address the drug toxicity crisis. Criminalizing those who use substances has done nothing to address this complex health issue and has resulted in greater suffering and marginalization.”

By Health Service Delivery Area in 2021, the highest overdose rates were in Vancouver, Thompson-Cariboo, Northwest, North Vancouver Island and Fraser East regions. By Local Health Area, the highest rates were in Merritt, Lillooet, Upper Skeena, North Thompson and Hope.

According to the Coroners Service, no deaths have been reported at supervised consumption or drug overdose prevention sites.