The Rochester Police Department and Monroe County Sheriff’s Department have issued a joint statement in connection with four deaths in the city in the last two days.
Authorities say the circumstances indicate the deaths may be related to heroin or other illegal controlled substances.
In addition, there have been at least four additional possible drug overdoses in which the victims were revived, some by narcan (naloxone). Seven of the victims are males, ranging in age from 22 – 64; one victim is a female age 39. Their names are being withheld pending confirmation of notification of their families. Three of the victims are residents of the City of Rochester, three are residents or Monroe County, and two resided outside Monroe County.
Officials say that at this time, they cannot confirm the causes of death in these cases are actually due to drug overdoses, or what the actual drugs are that may be involved. They hope to have more information after the results of medical tests.
RPD and deputies say while all illegal drugs are very dangerous, they are in particular warning the public about substances packaged as follows:
(1) envelopes with purple, red, and white emblem of a bulldog with fangs wearing sunglasses; (2) envelopes with golden skulls on a black background; (3) bag with a red shark and the word “predator;” (4) bag with a gold American eagle with the words “new arrival;” and (5) blue skeleton with the words “jingle killer.”
Authorities emphasize that all illegal drugs should be considered dangerous regardless of markings or the absence of markings on the packaging.
RPD Chief Michael Ciminelli and Monroe County Sheriff Patrick O’Flynn have been in contact over the weekend, and their agencies are working closely together along with other law enforcement and social service agencies to deal with this issue.
Chief Ciminelli and Sheriff O’Flynn have issued the following joint statement: “We encourage anyone needing assistance with a drug problem to seek medical help immediately. RPD officers and MCSO Deputies will facilitate getting persons who need help to a hospital.”
Anyone with information about illegal drug sales is encouraged to call 911 or 311.
