SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Overdose deaths in Sioux Falls have dropped by 20% in the first half of 2025, according to local officials.
At this time last year, the city had recorded 10 fatal overdoses. So far in 2025, seven people have died from drug overdoses—most involving fentanyl—with one additional case pending toxicology results.
Sioux Falls Police Chief Jon Thum emphasized the dangers of today’s drug supply.
“When we look at these drug cases, you hear ‘bad batch, hot batch.’ The reality is with the drugs we are dealing with, they are all bad batches—all bad drugs,” Thum said. “Fentanyl in particular, and methamphetamine—there is no safe way they can be used.”
Thum noted that naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses, plays a critical role in saving lives. But he stressed that it must be paired with follow-up care and a coordinated community response to support individuals struggling with addiction.
Emily’s Hope, a nonprofit based in Sioux Falls, is partnering with the state of South Dakota to expand access to naloxone statewide. Since May 7, 2024, the organization has distributed 5,307 naloxone kits across South Dakota, including 3,961 in Sioux Falls. Free naloxone is available through the program at emilyshope.charity/find-narcan.
In addition, Emily’s Hope offers a Post Overdose Response Team (PORT) to follow up with overdose survivors and connect them to critical resources, as well as treatment scholarships through the Avera Addiction Care Center. More information is available at emilyshope.charity/our-impact.
Angela Kennecke, founder of Emily’s Hope, said she is hopeful the trend in Sioux Falls continues.
“I’m encouraged to see the number of deaths drop in Sioux Falls for the first part of 2025,” Kennecke said. “I’ve heard from several people who have used our naloxone to save a life. We know it is out there making a difference and giving others a second chance.”
