COLUMBIA, S.C. – Authorities in Chesterfield County, South Carolina are investigating three deaths suspected to be related to fentanyl poisoning. The incidents occurred on August 21, 2023, in the vicinity of McQueen Road near Chesterfield and Cheraw. The Sheriff’s Office responded to the calls reporting the incidents between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, two victims were found on McQueen Road, with another individual having passed away earlier that day in the same neighborhood. Sheriff Cambo Streater stated that fentanyl was found at the first location, and drugs were found at the second location, with initial evidence suggesting fentanyl involvement.
Sheriff Streater shared an emotional connection to the issue, as he had lost his daughter to the drug in March. He expressed concern about the prevalence of fentanyl-related deaths in Chesterfield County and emphasized the need to address the problem.
In addition to the three deaths under investigation, another individual is said to be on life support in the hospital and is believed to be connected with the incident. Law enforcement urges the public not to touch or consume any substances suspected to contain fentanyl and to immediately report it to authorities.
The investigation involves multiple agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, Coroner, Lancaster County Coroner, and the State Law Enforcement Division. Legislation passed earlier in the year in South Carolina allows dealers to be charged with overdose deaths, underscoring the severity of the opioid crisis in the state.
These tragic events come amidst National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day, highlighting the ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and combat its proliferation. As the investigation continues, law enforcement is committed to apprehending those responsible and preventing further tragedies related to fentanyl.