Kenosha Co. medical examiner reports 3 suspected overdose deaths this week

KENOSHA COUNTY, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The Kenosha County medical examiner is reporting a series of suspected drug overdose deaths this week.

The county says three suspected overdose deaths have been processed this week alone, the first occurring on Sunday, June 25, in the city of Kenosha. The second occurred Monday outside of the city, according to the medical examiner's office, and the third occurred Tuesday in Kenosha. 

“These new developments show us that, sadly, Kenosha County remains firmly in the grip of the opioid crisis,” Medical Examiner Patrice Hall said today. “Now more than ever, I encourage people not to use illegal drugs and counterfeit prescription medications, and to seek help if they need it.”

Hall also said results from 2022 confirmed 57 toxicity deaths for the year, tying the previous record from 2017. Hall says it's a number that will "likely grow," as roughly half a dozen cases from last year are still pending.

The county says fentanyl continues to be a contributing factor, accounting for 37 of the 57 cases confirmed from 2022.

“That uncertainty about what it is that you’re actually getting when you use illegal drugs or counterfeit prescriptions adds such a dangerous element,” Hall said. “I cannot stress enough the seriousness of this situation.”

Those seeking help are encouraged to call the Kenosha County Mental Health and Substance Abuse Resource Center at 262-764-8555.

Narcan and fentanyl test strips are available at no cost from Kenosha County Public Health. Strips may be picked up from 8:30 to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday at the Kenosha County Public Health Job Center Clinic, 8600 Sheridan Road, Kenosha. They are also available from Vivent Health-Kenosha, which may be reached at 262-657-6644 or online.

The Kenosha County Criss Hotline is also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 262-657-7188.