Austin, Texas – A surge of overdoses in Austin has led to the detention of two persons of interest following multiple deaths, according to Austin-Travis County EMS.
The Austin-Travis County EMS has responded to approximately 70 suspected overdoses as of Wednesday, with the potential for more cases to emerge throughout the week. When asked about the eight deaths linked to the outbreak, ATCEMS indicated that they were suspected to be opiate-related.
The situation prompted a rapid response from various organizations, including EMS, the homeless strategy office, urban alchemy, and nonprofits like the Texas Harm Reduction Alliance. Together, they distributed over 400 doses of Narcan to combat the rising number of overdoses.
Assistant Chief Eric Fitzgerald of the Austin Police Department stated in a press conference on Tuesday that there is a concerning presence of lethal illicit narcotics in the community. The increase in overdose calls prompted a collaborative effort to provide Narcan to individuals at risk.
Texas Harm Reduction Alliance also mobilized teams to distribute Narcan on the streets in response to the overdose outbreak. Their efforts resulted in over 100 doses being distributed on Tuesday, with a focus on educating individuals about the risk of overdose and the importance of Narcan.
The majority of overdose calls initially originated in downtown Austin but later spread to other areas, indicating a widespread impact of the contaminated drugs. EMS Captain Christa Stedman noted that outbreaks like this often suggest a new batch of dangerous substances in circulation, likely from a few specific sources.
The APD’s Narcotics Support Unit is actively pursuing leads to identify and apprehend individuals involved in the distribution of the illicit drugs linked to the overdoses. While details about the two detained suspects have not been released, authorities are exploring the possibility of additional arrests in connection with the incident.