Home / Health / Penticton Overdose Calls Surge 484% Amid New Drug Crisis
Penticton Overdose Calls Surge 484% Amid New Drug Crisis
3 Jun
Summary
- Penticton overdose calls increased 484% in early 2026.
- A new naloxone-resistant drug, medetomidine, is driving the surge.
- Emergency services are strained, impacting response to other incidents.
Penticton, B.C. is facing an alarming escalation in overdose incidents, with the fire department responding to 187 calls in the first quarter of 2026, a 484% jump from the 32 calls during the same period last year. Fire Chief Mike Larsson described the situation as taxing on resources and noted a steady increase with no signs of slowing down.
The surge is largely driven by medetomidine, a potent sedative typically used in veterinary medicine, which has proven resistant to naloxone. This drug, detected in over 30% of B.C. drug samples in March 2026, has led to slower patient responses to medical aid. The B.C. Coroners Service recorded seven toxic drug deaths with medetomidine presence in March 2026 alone.
City officials acknowledge the strain on emergency services, with Coun. Campbell Watt questioning the lack of a dedicated response branch for such incidents. Mayor Julius Bloomfield suggested discussions with the provincial government regarding increased support and preventative measures. The fire department is prepared to request additional resources in upcoming budget deliberations if the trend continues.
