San Diego Drug Task Force reports ‘hopeful’ decline in annual overdose deaths

Local law enforcement and public health officials on Thursday announced a significant decline in annual overdose deaths in San Diego County and urged the public to support prevention efforts and carry naxalone when possible.

Officials briefed the press in front of the county administration building, where 1,203 purple flags were placed to commemorate overdose deaths last year.

After rising from 655 in 2019 to 1,300 in 2022, the death toll fell by 97 in 2023, according to the San Diego County Substance Use and Overdose Prevention Task Force's annual report.

In 2023, there were fewer deaths from fentanyl and methamphetamine and a sharp decline in deaths among teenagers and young adults.

District Attorney Summer Stephan called the decline a “hopeful sign” and praised efforts to prevent drug use and prosecute dealers.

She expressed her hope that Bill 36, which would increase penalties for drug offenses, would be passed in November. The law would “finally hold drug dealers accountable.”

U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath said access to Naxalone, which quickly reverses an opioid overdose, can save a life. She noted that her staff carries the drug and urged the public to do the same.

She praised the decline in overdose deaths, but warned: “If the fentanyl epidemic doesn't scare you, then you haven't been paying attention.”

On Saturday, International Overdose Awareness Day, the county building will be lit purple in support.