The Peoria Fire Department and the Peoria County Coroner are offering words of community awareness and support in the face of two suspected opioid overdose deaths.
A 40-year-old woman and 44-year-old man died during a 72-hour period, both strongly suspected of overdosing between Saturday and Tuesday morning.
One was found in the alley off the 1000 block of North East Adams Street. The other was in the 1800 block of Callender. The coroner's office says the deaths appear to be unrelated. But both people had distinct drug paraphernalia and recent needle marks. Toxicology tests will be necessary to determine confirm the cause of death in both cases.
But the Peoria County Coroner and Fire Department are saying people need to know because the deaths could signal a dangerous drug is sweeping through Peoria.
PFD Division Chief Tony Ardis says the Good Samaritan Act can provide immunity for anyone who calls for help when witnessing an overdose. He adds seeking immediate help can save lives, as paramedics have been able to revive some people who were presumed deceased.
Additionally the Jolt Foundation on North East Adams offers fentanyl test strips, as well as Narcan and Narcan training.
