Puerto Rico Declares Emergency After Suspected Fentanyl Overdoses

Eight deaths and numerous overdoses in Arecibo prompt a major police and health response.

Police in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, are investigating eight recent deaths linked to suspected fentanyl contamination.
Approximately two dozen individuals have suffered overdoses in the town, prompting a public health emergency declaration.
The Puerto Rico Health Department has dispatched teams to identify and assist those with overdose symptoms.
Law enforcement operations have led to the detention of at least six people for alleged drug possession and sales.
Fentanyl-related deaths on the island increased from 590 in 2022 to 635 in 2023, highlighting a growing crisis.