Twenty-six Richmond residents died in 2023 due to suspected drug poisonings and overdoses.
Three people died in November and three in December, according to the latest statistics released by the BC Coroner on Wednesday.
This is in the context of the deadliest year on record of drug poisoning deaths in B.C.
The coroner reported that 2,511 people died across the province last year – up by 128 from 2022.
This is an average of almost seven people a day who are dying in B.C.
Moms Stop the Harm, which advocates for policy changes and supports families who have lost loved ones to the toxic-drug crisis, called out the B.C. government, saying their actions “have had no effect on decreasing the death rate.”
“Behind each of those numbers is a heartbroken family, as well as countless friends who now must endure a lifetime of grief,” read its statement on Wednesday.
The group criticized all three provincial parties for their “shocking lack of understanding of substance use and addiction.”
“As a result, people who use drugs in B.C., including our most vulnerable citizens, continue to be at risk,” the statement reads. “Courageous and bold action must be taken, and instead politicians posture for their own gains.”
The coroner notes 80 per cent of deaths in B.C. from toxic drugs occurred indoors, with 47 per cent in private residences.
According to a map released by Richmond Fire-Rescue, they responded to overdoses and drug poisonings from Hamilton to Steveston in November. Many, however, were concentrated in the city centre area.
Got an opinion on this story or any others in Richmond? Send us a letter or email your thoughts or story tips to [email protected].
