Idaho Falls police warn public after two fatal suspected fentanyl overdoses

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — Idaho Falls police are warning the public after three suspected fentanyl overdoses were reported in the city Tuesday, including two that turned fatal.

According to the Idaho Falls Police Department, officers responded to overdoses in the 500 block of Ridge Avenue and the 200 block of Short Street on May 26.

Police identified the two people who died as a 24-year-old woman and a 63-year-old woman.

Investigators do not currently believe the overdoses are connected to a "bad batch" of fentanyl. However, police say evidence suggests the substance may have been mistaken for another illicit drug.

In an statement “Fentanyl can be found in several forms, including powder, and may appear in different colors and consistencies, making it difficult to identify,”

Officials say people may unknowingly ingest fentanyl while believing they are using a different substance.

The Idaho Falls Police Department is reminding the public that fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is often mixed into other drugs, sometimes without the user's knowledge. Even a small amount can be deadly.

Police are urging residents to never take pills or substances that are not prescribed to them and to be aware that counterfeit pills may contain fentanyl.

Officials also encouraged community members to carry Narcan, also known as naloxone, which can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.

Anyone who suspects an overdose should call 911 immediately. Signs of an overdose can include slowed breathing, unconsciousness and blue or gray skin coloration.

The Idaho Falls Police Department said it is continuing to work with community partners to investigate the incidents and identify those responsible for distributing dangerous narcotics in the area.

Anyone with information about narcotics distribution in Idaho Falls is encouraged to contact the Idaho Falls Police Department at 208-529-1200 or submit an anonymous tip through East Idaho Crime Stoppers.