Windsor police probe drug connection to sudden deaths

By Amos Johnson

Windsor police are investigating the possibility illicit drugs were involved in four “sudden deaths” that occurred within a 24-hour span this weekend.

Police say the tally could have been worse but “timely and effective medical intervention” prevented one fatal drug overdose. Essex-Windsor EMS paramedics transported three suspected overdose victims to hospital on the weekend.

While police stopped short of blaming opioids for the weekend deaths, they issued a release highlighting the dangers of illegal drug use.

“The effect of the opioid crisis has been felt across the country. There is no single clear and concise answer or solution to such complex issues,” said police. “The Windsor Police Service firmly believes that it requires a coordinated approach with many community partners, working together in real-time, and we continue to work with partner agencies to help keep our communities safe.”

Police say the incidents took place between 6 a.m. Saturday and 6 a.m. Sunday. Officers from the Major Crimes Branch are investigating each case.

“It is far too early for investigators to confirm a reason or cause of death,” said police. “There is a possibility that each case involved the use of illicit drugs while the subject was in a private place.”

According to Statistics Canada, there were 2,816 apparent opioid-related deaths in Canada in 2016. Within the first three months of 2017, there were at least 602 apparent opioid-related deaths.