11 suspected drug-related poisonings within two hours in Belleville

Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) and the Belleville Police Service are notifying the public of 11 suspected drug-related poisonings that took place in Belleville on Tuesday, Oct. 29 in the span of two hours.

“This number of drug-related poisonings is exceptionally high for a single day and suggests that there is dangerous contamination present in the local drug supply,” stated HPEPH in a media release.
The Belleville Police Service has also issued a public safety warning.

It stated there have been no deaths reported as a result of the incidents.

Belleville Police report the incidents began around 3 p.m. with two individuals experiencing overdoses near the intersection of Bridge and Coleman streets, followed by a third person on Front Street.

Around 5 p.m., officers attended a commercial lot on North Front Street and found a total of eight people experiencing overdoses.

All of those impacted were treated by emergency medical personnel.

In light of this rash of incidents, Belleville Police are advising those who utilize illicit drugs to exercise caution.

“If you or someone you know uses drugs, please be aware that current supplies may contain unexpected, highly toxic substances.”

HPEPH reminds anyone who uses drugs that steps can be taken to reduce risk. The steps include avoiding mixing drugs, trying a small amount first; never using alone and not sharing drug use equipment, as it could be contaminated with other drugs.

HPEPH recommends having at least one naloxone kit on hand. A single dose may not be enough to reverse an overdose resulting from contaminated drugs.