Delawareans asked to 'exercise extreme caution' after string of overdoses

Delaware State Police and the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services issued a safety advisory Tuesday night in the wake of a "surge" in suspected drug overdoses, especially in Sussex County.

Officials are urging Delawareans to "exercise extreme caution," avoid illegal drugs and refrain from consuming unknown substances. They also encourage those struggling with addiction to contact medical professionals or support services.

Police said that troopers have recorded a "significant increase" in overdoses since Friday, leading to at least one death and "severe medical emergencies." Many of the people who overdosed showed symptoms resistant to the overdose-reversing drug naloxone, requiring intubation and repeated doses of Narcan. They also experienced "uncontrollable convulsions," police said, even after anti-seizure medicine was given.

Preliminary investigations found that the drugs involved in the overdoses were packaged in small, white wax paper bags, which police said are typically associated with heroin. Testing is still ongoing.

Police could not provide the exact number of overdoses or their locations when asked following the community alert. A state police spokesperson said officers are "still trying to track all the data among all first responders," and that the department "wanted to at least get the messaging out to the public to be aware."

How to find help

• Delaware Hope Line: 833-9-HOPEDE for free 24/7 counseling, coaching and support, as well as links to mental health, addiction and crisis services. Resources also can be found on the Help is Here website.
• Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988
• SAMHSA National Helpline: 800-662-HELP (4357) for free 24/7 substance abuse disorder treatment referral services. Treatment service locators also are available online at findtreatment.samhsa.gov or via text message by sending your ZIP code to 435748.

Send story tips or ideas to Hannah Edelman at hedelman@delawareonline.com. For more reporting, follow them on X at @h_edelman.