Columbia Trying To Halt Fatal Drug Overdoses

An increase in the number of suspected drug overdose deaths in Columbia has prompted several organizations to host a community meeting next week. Columbia/Boone County Public Health and Human Services, the Columbia Fire Department and the Columbia Police Department will host the meeting at Hickman Tuesday night, October 19th at 7 pm in the commons to raise awareness about fentanyl being found in multiple drugs. According to the Columbia Police Department, there were 22 known and/or suspected drug overdose deaths in Columbia between January First and October First, Including 11 since August First. Officers responded to 200 calls for service where someone was reported to be experiencing a drug overdose. Experts will provide information and distribute Narcan, which can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose. There will also be speakers talking about their experiences.