WARWICK, R.I. – Police in Warwick, Rhode Island have issued a public safety warning after a 27-year-old woman reportedly died from unknowingly using marijuana laced with fentanyl. According to NewsNation, police say the cannabis was not purchased from a licensed dispensary.
“As our investigation continues, we are working to determine whether this is an isolated incident or part of a larger trend,” Captain Daniel DiMaio said in an email to WPRI. “We are sharing this preliminary information as a public service advisory to raise awareness and promote public safety.”
Emily’s Hope has reported on other similar cases. In February, South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley and the state’s Division of Criminal Investigation issued a warning after a man experienced an overdose from suspected fentanyl-laced marijuana.
Officials say the man reported smoking marijuana that had a chemical taste and a blue-white tint—something he’d never experienced before. At the ER, he tested positive for opioids but has since recovered.
“This is an especially dangerous time, and the public is encouraged not to engage in the use of marijuana and controlled substances, and if after taking these controlled substances and feeling sick, immediately seek medical attention,” said Jackley.
