Local Authorities Warn of Sharp Spike in Opioid Related Overdoses

(KNSI) – The Central Minnesota Violent Offender Task Force and local law enforcement agencies are warning the public about a concerning rise in overdose and suspected overdose deaths in the St. Cloud area.

According to a press release, over the past several months, there has been a sharp increase in the number of overdoses, and many of them have resulted in death. In the City of St. Cloud, there have been four confirmed deaths and several other suspected deaths since January 1st. This is an increase from where St. Cloud was at during the same time frame in 2024. Investigators say two drugs, in particular, are the main culprits as unsuspecting buyers think they’re getting one substance, such as heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine, and counterfeit prescription pills, and are unknowingly ingesting fentanyl or xylazine.

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid, up to 50 times stronger than heroin, and can cause rapid respiratory failure. Xylazine is a veterinary sedative not approved for human use, and unlike fentanyl, it does not respond to Narcan, making overdoses even more difficult to reverse.

There are active and open investigations into who is responsible for selling the drugs. The task force says to avoid buying and using street drugs because the risk of overdose is higher than ever, and for someone who may be aware of another person in their life who uses opioids, to carry Narcan, which is available over the counter. Narcan can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose within minutes. Also, encourage anyone who may be struggling with a substance use disorder to seek treatment. If it is a suspected overdose, call 911 immediately. Minnesota’s Good Samaritan Law provides protections for people who seek medical help in an overdose situation.

Anyone with information regarding the distribution of fentanyl-laced drugs is encouraged to contact local law enforcement or submit an anonymous tip with Tri-County Crime Stoppers by clicking here.

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