Another 115 dead in February in BC from decade-long toxic drug crisis

Just days after the toxic drug crisis in BC reached its 10th anniversary, the BC Coroners Service (BCCS) has reported another 115 British Columbians died of toxic drug use in February. 

This brings the total number of deaths since the public health crisis was declared in April 2016 up to 18,289. 

This February, 38 of the 115 who died of toxic drugs were on Vancouver Island, and 11 of those 38 died within the Greater Victoria region. 

According to the BCCS, deaths among those aged 30 to 59 accounted for 69% of drug-toxicity deaths in the province, and 78% of those deceased were male. 

The latest data shows that thus far in 2026, 81% of drug deaths have occurred inside in places like private residences, social and supportive housing, SROs, shelters and other locations. This figure has surged since drug decriminalization was repealed by the BC government in early 2026. 

Meanwhile, just 18% were found to have occurred outside in places such as vehicles, sidewalks, streets and parks.

For the first time in a long while, stimulants, rather than fentanyl, were found to be the most common substances detected in the February drug deaths. 

Examples of stimulants may be cocaine and its analogues or methamphetamine. 

BCCS reported that 83% of decedents who underwent expedited testing were found to have stimulants in their systems, 80% had fentanyl or its analogues and 36% had taken benzodiazepines. 

Data also shows that smoking continues to be the most common mode of consumption at 71% followed by nasal insufflation and injection, both at 9%. 

BCCS notes that this data is preliminary and subject to change as additional toxicological results are received and investigations conclude.

Related:

• BC declared toxic-drug deaths a public-health emergency 10 years ago today

Earlier this week, BC Minister of Health Josie Osborne made a statement sympathizing with those impacted by this far-reaching crisis. 

“This crisis is impacting our entire province, as well as Canada and North America, and has been filled with heartbreak, fear and grief for families, friends and colleagues,” said Osborne.  

“Each person lost was once a child, someone with a story and a future, a life cut short and a loss that families and communities will carry forever.”

She says the government’s main priorities after repealing the decriminalization pilot are to work on reducing stigma and increasing access to recovery beds throughout the province.