SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – While the nation sees a slight reprieve from the drug overdose crisis, Sioux Falls is facing a troubling surge. According to Police Chief Jon Thum, overdose deaths in the city have skyrocketed by 70% in the past year. Over the last 18 months, Minnehaha and Lincoln County Sheriff’s offices have reported more than 44 overdose fatalities, with fentanyl and methamphetamine identified as the primary culprits.
Nationwide drug deaths appear to be on the decline for the first time since 2018. According to the latest provisional data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), deaths dropped an unprecedented 10.6% from April 2023 to April 2024.
Experts point to expanded access to naloxone (Narcan) and harm reduction programs, as well as reduced opioid prescribing, as major contributors to the national decline. Narcan, an overdose-reversing medication, became available over the counter after FDA approval in 2023, making it more accessible to the public.
Emily’s Hope is taking steps to help curb the overdose crisis in Sioux Falls. This spring, the organization began distributing free naloxone through specially placed boxes at the Jones421 Building, Sioux Falls Tires, Tires, Tires locations, and soon at Falls Community Health.
While Sioux Falls has seen an increase in deaths, the latest CDC figures show a 2% decrease overall in South Dakota. However, other states continue to struggle with dramatic increases—Alaska reported a staggering 42% rise in overdose deaths, followed by 22% in Oregon and 18% in Nevada.
