Kenosha Co. sees 3 suspected OD deaths in recent days: 'Not just a problem for people in their teens'

KENOSHA COUNTY, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The Kenosha County medical examiner is warning the public after a string of suspected overdose deaths in the community.

According to Medical Examiner Patrice Hall, the office has responded to three cases in recent days, all involving men over the age of 35. 

In late July, five suspected overdose deaths occurred in the county over the course of a few days, all involving people over the age of 50. 

“These statistics go to show that the overdose epidemic is not just a problem for people in their teens and 20s,” Hall said. “This is affecting people in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond."

Kenosha County has confirmed 58 toxicity deaths in 2022, a number Hall says is likely to grow as results are still pending in several cases. The medical examiner's office says this number exceeds the previous record from 2017.

Anyone in need of help with substance use is encouraged to contact the Kenosha County Mental Health and Substance Abuse Resource Center at 262-764-8555. 

Kenosha County agencies continue to officer Narcan, fentanyl test strips and other prevention resources.

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