[Archived] City of Alexandria Warns of Danger Posed by Fentanyl-Laced Cocaine Following Overdoses

For Immediate Release: September 21, 2021

City officials are warning residents about a deadly batch of what is believed to be fentanyl-laced cocaine circulating in the region, after six people were found overdosed this morning in neighboring Fairfax County. 

Please take steps to protect yourself and others who may be in possession of cocaine purchased in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. The nasal spray Narcan (also known as Naloxone) can save the life of someone who is overdosing from substances containing opioids, if given in time, and test strips can detect dangerous fentanyl-laced drugs before they are used. Obtain free Narcan and fentanyl test strips by emailing your name and address to opioids@alexandriava.gov to have one or both mailed to you. Anyone who assists a person in need by administering Narcan is protected by the Good Samaritan Law from liability while rendering aid. 

For life-threatening situations, call 911 immediately. The Safe Reporting of Overdose Law provides protection from prosecution. No individual is subject to arrest or prosecution if they call for help for someone who is overdosing or they themselves are overdosing.

If you or someone you care about needs help with addiction, call 703.746.3636 (Virginia Relay 711), 24 hours a day. For help to stop using heroin or other opioids, call the Opioid Treatment Program intake line at 703.746.3610. Individuals who do not live in Alexandria can find treatment options at samhsa.gov or by calling 800.662.HELP (4357).

If you have information regarding past overdoses, call the Alexandria Police Department at 703.746.6277.

Visit alexandriava.gov/Opioids for more information on the opioid crisis and how the City is responding, including a printable flyer on overdose symptoms and how to get help.

For media inquiries, contact Andrea Blackford, Senior Communications Officer, at andrea.blackford@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3965.