Unregulated drug deaths continue to rise in Terrace, Kitimat, and Prince Rupert, with new data showing troubling trends from 2023 to 2024. Terrace remains one of the hardest-hit areas, with its death rate increasing from 93.8 to 109 per 100,000 people. Prince Rupert also saw a jump, rising from 35.1 to 41.6. Kitimat, after reaching 90.9 in 2023, now sits at 48.5, though the crisis persists.
Fentanyl remains the leading cause, detected in over 80 percent of cases. Benzodiazepines are increasingly involved, now linked to more than half of deaths. Methamphetamine and cocaine continue to be major contributors.
Health officials warn that the toxic drug supply is worsening the crisis, calling for more harm reduction services and stronger community support. As deaths rise, experts stress the urgent need for expanded resources to curb the growing impact in Northwest B.C.
Comments