Illicit drugs claim 184 lives in July; 32 in the Interior

More than 1,200 people have died as a result of toxic drugs in the first seven months of 2021, according to the latest preliminary reporting from the BC Coroners Service.

“The deaths of another 184 of our community members in July is a stark reminder of the tragic and unrelenting trajectory of this public health emergency,” said Lisa Lapointe, chief coroner. “We know that the loss of each of these individuals leaves a devastated circle of family and friends who are grieving the preventable death of a cherished loved one.”

The 184 reported deaths represent the second-deadliest month on record in B.C. for drug toxicity, only two fewer than the 186 deaths recorded in June 2020. In the first seven months of 2021, 1,204 suspected drug toxicity deaths have been recorded, the highest number experienced in B.C. from January through July in any calendar year, and 26% more than the previous high of 954 deaths recorded between January and July 2017.

July 2021 is the 17th consecutive month in which more than 100 British Columbians have died as a result of the toxic drug supply.

The Interior Health Authority recorded 32 illicit deaths in July, the highest death toll this year. Broken down further the Thompson Cariboo region which includes the Nicola Valley saw nine deaths in July, a drop from the 15 in May and 10 in June.

The Local Health Area COVID-19 data, which hasn’t been updated since April, continues to show Merritt with the highest illicit drug death rate per 100,000 people at 133.4, more than 20 points higher than second place Powell River. From January to April 6 illicit drug deaths have been reported in Merritt.

An update to the local numbers is expected next month.