Strathmore RCMP investigating three youth overdoses - Update

September 27, 2019
Strathmore, Alberta

News release

RCMP continue to investigate after three youths were taken to hospital on Saturday.

RCMP can confirm the 16-year-old male youth has succumbed while in hospital to the medical distress assistance call that was reported on Sept. 22, 2019.

Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident. The name of the deceased will not be released.

Background:

September 23, 2019

Strathmore RCMP investigating three youth overdoses

RCMP continue to investigate after three youths were taken to hospital on Saturday.

On September 22, 2019 at approximately 9 a.m., RCMP responded to an assistance call from Strathmore EMS. RCMP arrived at a residence where EMS was working on a male in medical distress. A 16-year-old male youth was transported by ground ambulance and then flown by STARS to an area hospital in critical condition. Investigation revealed the youth had consumed prescription pills.

RCMP learned that another 15-year-old male youth was taken to hospital earlier that morning under the same circumstances. Shortly thereafter it was then determined that a third youth, a 15-year-old male, was also transported to hospital under the same circumstances. All youths had attended the same house party the previous evening and are suspected of ingesting opioids in pill form.

All three youths remain in hospital in critical condition. Strathmore RCMP continue to make this investigation and the safety of our youth a priority. Strathmore RCMP want to assure the public that this is an isolated incident. RCMP have partnered with Victim Services who have been engaged with the families from the onset.

No further information will be released at this time. Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

The investigation is ongoing and police are asking if you have information about this incident to please call the Strathmore RCMP at 403-934-3535 or call your local police. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

–30–

Contact information

Cpl. Chris Warren
Media Relations Group
780-831-2347

Date modified: