Greater Alexandria Death Investigated As Opioid Overdose

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA—A Greater Alexandria overdose was one of six Fairfax County overdoses in the last week, leading detectives to investigate the involvement of opioids, including a deadly batch of heroin.

Fairfax County Police say five of the deaths from Dec. 1-7 could be caused by opioids. Aside from the Greater Alexandria death, the overdoses happened in the McLean, Fairfax Station, Clifton and Fairfax.

A deadly strain of heroin laced with fentanyl and carfentanil could be responsible for the deaths, police believe. Authorities say it can be deadly in small doses and may have been distributed in the area. Pending lab results will confirm if the deaths are related to this batch.

This year, Fairfax County has seen 102 fatal overdoses, and 70 percent have been opioid related. The victims have been of all age groups, but the highest numbers are seen in ages 25-25.

“In my 20 years in Narcotics, I have never seen anything like this. Before this week, the highest number of opioid overdoses we had in a weekend was five, and fortunately, everyone lived,” said Second Lt. James Cox of the Organized Crime and Narcotics Division. "We don't want to see anyone else die. Please have a plan in place. You may remain anonymous. Help is also available through the Community Services Board for anyone, including families suffering from addiction."

The county and community partners have responded to the growing opioid crisis with a number of resources. Residents can receive free training on administering Narcan, the medicine that can reverse an overdose, through the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board and other groups. The medicine is available without a prescription at local pharmacy stores in Virginia. First responders are also trained in Narcan use and carry it on call.

Community members can also be aware of signs that someone may be overdosing. Symptoms of opioid overdoses include: loss of consciousness, pinpoint pupils, snore-like gurgling sounds, shallow or erratic breathing, bluish, purple or ashen skin color, nausea or vomiting or fingernails turning blue or close to black. If you believe someone has overdosed, immediately call 911.

Help is available 24/7 for anyone battling drug addiction by calling the Community Services Board at Merrifield Center at 703-573-5679. Walk-ins are also open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 8221 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive, Fairfax.

Image via DEA