North Austin News

Austin-Travis County EMS (ATCEMS) and the Austin Police Department (APD) have been actively responding to multiple overdose incidents in downtown Austin, as reported on April 29, 2024. According to the press release, a total of 31 patients were involved in these incidents, with three individuals tragically pronounced deceased at the scene. The overdoses were described as opiate-like, and those transported to local hospitals showed positive responses to Narcan administration, indicating the likelihood of opioid ingestion.

"We’ve been passing out Narcan kits and teaching people how to use them to empower our community members to help us save lives," stated ATCEMS Assistant Chief Steve White. The distribution of Narcan kits by ATCEMS Community Health Paramedics in the downtown area aimed to raise awareness and ensure the safety of the community.

Dr. Mark Escott, ATCEMS Chief Medical Officer and EMS System Medical Director, emphasized the dangers of non-prescribed opioids, stating, "You should never use any medication that has not been prescribed to you by a physician and dispensed by a licensed pharmacy. It’s just not worth the risk."

The Austin Police Department's Organized Crime Division Narcotics Support Unit is actively investigating the source of the illicit narcotics, with the goal of identifying and holding accountable those responsible for distributing the dangerous drugs. APD's efforts include pursuing charges related to fentanyl overdoses, a substance of major concern in the Austin community.

In response to the overdose incidents, the City of Austin Homeless Strategy Officer collaborated with local shelters to ensure the safety of individuals in shelters and prevent further harm. ATCEMS urged the public to be vigilant of overdose symptoms, familiarize themselves with the signs, and immediately seek medical assistance by calling 9-1-1 in case of emergencies.

The implications of fentanyl overdoses on the Austin community have prompted APD to take proactive measures in investigating and prosecuting individuals involved in the distribution of this deadly drug. To date, charges related to fentanyl overdoses have been filed against five individuals by APD's Narcotics Support Unit.