Montana warning of increase in fentanyl-related overdoses
AMY BETH HANSON, Associated Press
June 28, 2021
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HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Several Montana agencies are warning of an alarming increase in fentanyl-related overdoses and deaths.
“This latest trend is extremely concerning and adds to the already existing deadly and costly impact illegal drugs have in Montana communities,” Gov. Greg Gianforte said in a statement Monday.
The state crime lab reported 41 fentanyl-related deaths in 2020, more than double the 19 deaths a year earlier.
Through the first five months of this year, there’s been 22 confirmed fentanyl-related deaths, including 11 in April alone, the Department of Justice said. If the trend continues, the state is on pace for 53 deaths this year.