Fredericton Police Force (FPF) are issuing an urgent public alert following a marked increase in drug overdose incidents across the city. Since the beginning of September, officers have attended 33 overdose-related calls—including 13 in the past 24 hours alone.
So far this year, police have responded to 113 drug overdose calls requiring medical intervention, compared to 2024, where officers responded to a total of 76 overdoses at the same time.
Throughout 2024, the FPF handled a total of 109 overdose incidents.
To date in 2025 there have been six confirmed fatalities due to drug overdoses, with active investigations continuing into a number of these cases.
Preliminary investigations suggest that there has been an increased use of fentanyl, a potent, unpredictable and often lethal opioid. New information suggests that the synthetic drug is being mixed with other harmful substances. The FPF strongly urges drug users to exercise extreme caution.
NARCAN, an emergency medication which reverses the effects of opioids, is carried by all police, fire and emergency first responders, and is a critical measure in saving lives during an overdose. Due to increased fentanyl use, FPF reports more frequent NARCAN administration, often requiring officers to administer multiple doses to counteract overdoses.
The FPF is deeply committed to the safety of all its citizens, particularly our most vulnerable populations and those at risk. We urge anyone using drugs to be aware of the increased risk and to seek help if needed. We also encourage friends and family members of those at risk to reach out to local health services for support and information.
The FPF wants to remind the public that the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides legal protection to anyone seeking emergency support during an overdose, including the person experiencing the overdose.
Fredericton Polie Force remain committed to removing harmful and toxic drugs off the streets. As a result of the latest targeted operation, the FPF have now seized more than $200,000 in illicit drugs this year. Year-to-date, officers have taken over 2.2 kilograms of methamphetamine and approximately 620 grams of cocaine off the streets, alongside more than 300 grams of fentanyl, marking a significant disruption to the drug trade and reinforcing our ongoing commitment to public safety through coordinated enforcement actions.
Residents are urged to contact 911 is they suspect someone is experiencing an overdose.
The Fredericton Police Force remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting public safety, supporting vulnerable members of our community, and working together with partners to maintain peace and order for all.
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Media contact:
Sonya Gilks
Public Information Officer
Fredericton Police Force
506-460-2777
Fpf.media@fredericton.ca