May 21, 2024 – Specialized Investigations Division detectives on Monday distributed Narcan kits to approximately 40 homeless individuals in the downtown core as the result of significant overdose activity on Sunday and Monday morning. In one incident alone in the downtown area, eight persons overdosed, two fatally. The six others were revived with Narcan. Other increases in overdose activity were observed in the areas of Harding Place near I-24, and in the Murfreesboro Pike corridor.
The most common substance in these overdoses is a white rock material being sold on the street as crack cocaine which appears to have a high concentration of fentanyl. The homeless population has been impacted the most. Patrol officers and detectives from the Neighborhood Safety Unit, the component that investigates drug overdoses and works to identify sources of illicit drugs, are continuing to warn persons about this overdose spike and are encouraging the carrying of Narcan.
For those seeking treatment for drug addiction, the Community Overdose Response Team (CORT) can help. CORT is a free and confidential resource to help find drug and alcohol treatment for individuals who are at risk of an overdose. The service is offered free of charge regardless of health insurance status. The team works with an individual to determine the appropriate level of care (e.g., detox, residential, or outpatient treatment, etc.). To make a referral or learn more about this resource for our community, call CORT at 615-687-1701.
Source: Metro Nashville Police Department
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