ATCEMS, APD respond to multiple overdoses in downtown Austin

Austin-Travis County EMS (ATCEMS) and the Austin Police Department (APD) have responded to multiple overdose incidents today, many concentrated in the downtown area, involving a total of 25 patients, two of whom were pronounced deceased on the scene. All of these overdoses presented as opiate-like and the patients who were transported to local hospitals responded well to Narcan administration, increasing the likelihood that the substance ingested was some kind of opiate.

The City of Austin Homeless Strategy Officer also responded to the scene and collaborated with local shelters, who initiated individual room checks to ensure those in shelters were not affected.

ATCEMS Community Health Paramedics have spent the day canvassing the downtown area and passing out Narcan kits to both their known clientele and members of the public. As of late Monday afternoon, a total of 153 Narcan kits had been distributed in the area.

"We've been passing out Narcan kits and teaching people how to use them to empower our community members to help us save lives," said ATCEMS Assistant Chief Steve White. "Opioid overdoses are easy to recognize, Narcan is simple to administer, and, with everyone's help, we can raise awareness and keep our community safe."

Opioid overdose is a life-threatening condition that can be reversed if patients are treated immediately with Narcan and emergency medical care. ATCEMS is asking members of the public to familiarize themselves with the signs and symptoms of an overdose and call 9-1-1 immediately if they see someone who appears to be overdosing. Those who choose to use any substances should always have a designated sober person with Narcan available to assist.

Overdose Symptoms:

• Shallow or slow breathing

• Confusion or loss of consciousness

• Change in skin color (pale, blue, or purple)

• Very small pupils

Several of the patients treated for overdoses today reported to paramedics that they thought they were taking a non-opioid narcotic.

"We are seeing opiates like fentanyl being used in almost every counterfeit drug on the market, and it can have devastating effects," said ATCEMS Chief Medical Officer and EMS System Medical Director Dr. Mark Escott. "You should never use any medication that has not been prescribed to you by a physician and dispensed by a licensed pharmacy. It's just not worth the risk."

APD's Organized Crime Division Narcotics Support Unit is investigating the source of the illicit narcotics and working to identify the potential dealer or dealers. Anyone found responsible for distributing the illicit drugs faces potential charges of murder and/or manufacture or delivery of controlled substance causing death or serious bodily injury.

Fentanyl overdoses and the effects they have on the Austin community are a major concern to the Austin Police Department. APD's Narcotics Support Unit actively investigates fentanyl overdose deaths for the purpose of holding those dealing this deadly drug accountable. To date the Narcotics Support Unit has filed charges related to fentanyl overdoses on five individuals.