B.C. sees spike in accidental homeless deaths in 2021; Kamloops records a decrease

VICTORIA — B.C. suffered a dramatic spike in homeless deaths in 2021.

Preliminary reporting from the BC Coroners Service Wednesday (Oct. 12) morning shows 247 accidental deaths of individuals experiencing homelessness were reported in 2021, a 75 per cent increase from the number in 2020.

“This report reflects the risks and realities that people experiencing homelessness face every day,” Lisa Lapointe, chief coroner says. “We know that many are facing significant health concerns, including physical disabilities, mental-health challenges and substance-use issues. Additionally, as is also evident in the province’s housed population, the report details the significant risks associated with toxic drugs for those who are unhoused. My hope is that this information will help support positive action, both during Homelessness Action Week and beyond.”

Kamloops was an anomaly compared to the rest of the province. According to the service, while other notable townships saw an increase in homeless fatalities, Kamloops went from eight deaths in 2020 to five in 2021. However, Interior Health reported 44 deaths in 2021, an increase from 26 in 2020.