British Columbia reports 239 drug toxicity deaths in July and August

Preliminary data from the BC Coroners Service indicates that 239 people died from unregulated drug toxicity in British Columbia during July and August 2026. This represents an average of 3.6 deaths per day in July and 4.1 deaths per day in August.

The Fraser Health and Vancouver Coastal Health authorities recorded the highest numbers, with 68 deaths each during this two-month period. Together, these two health authorities account for 54% of all unregulated drug deaths in the province so far in 2026.

For the first time since record-keeping began, fentanyl is no longer the top substance of concern. Fluorofentanyl, an opioid analogue, was detected in 68% of cases undergoing expedited toxicological testing. Other frequently detected substances include cocaine (56%), methamphetamine (53%), and fentanyl (50%).

Demographic data shows that males accounted for 76% of unregulated drug deaths in 2026, while females accounted for 24%. Individuals between the ages of 30 and 59 represent 69% of the province's toxicity deaths this year.