Suspected Heroin Overdose Kills Westlake Man

WESTLAKE, OH — While health officials believe the opioid epidemic may be slowing, its talons are still firmly implanted in Northeast Ohio. A Westlake man was its latest victim, overdosing and dying on Saturday in his home. This is the second overdose victim in the city in 30 days.

Police reports said callers reported a possible overdose inside a Bradley Road home a little before noon on September 22. Officer rushed to the scene but arrived too late. The 43-year-old resident was found deceased, the victim of a suspected heroin overdose.

Investigators collected evidence of drug use at the scene. Westlake detectives are working with the Cuyahoga County Coroner to investigate the case, police said.

Over the past month, Westlake police have dealt with several opioid-related incidents, including another overdose death. On August 25, a 30-year-old Westlake man was found dead in his apartment. He was holding a syringe when officers got into the home, police said.

In mid-September, three people were arrested for drug use. Officers found suspected heroin in their possession and evidence of drug use.

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Photo from Renee Schiavone, Patch