Northeast B.C. reports 33 drug overdose deaths in 2023

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Northeast BC reported 33 illicit drug overdoses in 2023, the highest year for overdose deaths in the region, according to the latest BC Coroners Service report.

The region had 26 deaths recorded in 2022, 29 in 2021 and 32 in 2020.

Northern Health had 206 drug toxicity deaths in 2023 — the most deaths reported by the health authority since 2012.

The Northern Health Authority had the highest death rate, with 67 deaths per 100,000 people. 

B.C. recorded 46 deaths per 100,000 people in 2023.

Provincially, there were 2,511 suspected drug toxicity deaths — the largest number of suspected deaths recorded in a calendar year.

“Tragically, toxic, illicit drugs are continuing to cause unprecedented numbers of deaths across our province,” said Lisa Lapointe, chief coroner. 

“This crisis, driven primarily by unregulated fentanyl, has cost our province dearly in the loss of much-loved and valued members of our communities. We cannot bring our deceased loved ones back, but we can and must do much more to protect the lives of tens of thousands of our family members, friends and colleagues still at risk.”

An average of 6.9 people died each day in BC of an illicit drug overdose in 2023.

The months with the most overdose deaths in 2023 were January at 229 deaths and July at 222.

In 2023, 70 per cent of those who died were aged 30 to 59, and 77 per cent were male.

According to the coroner’s report, 80 per cent of illicit drug overdoses occurred inside, most in private residences. The rest occurred outside, including vehicles, sidewalks, parks, and other venues.

The coroner’s service says one death has been reported at supervised consumption or drug overdose prevention sites. The report states that there is no indication that prescribed safe supply contributed to illicit drug deaths.

“As we approach the eighth anniversary of the declaration of the public health emergency that has cost so many lives across B.C., our province needs a coordinated, evidence-based response that is commensurate with the scale of this health crisis,” Lapointe said. 

“Deaths due to drug toxicity are preventable, and I urge our political leaders at all levels to collaborate on a thoughtful, comprehensive plan that puts people first.”