OMAHA, Neb. – The Omaha Police Department is warning about a dangerous new drug mixture hitting the streets. During a joint investigation with the Drug Enforcement Administration, detectives seized a substance known as “purple” fentanyl. Laboratory testing revealed it contained fentanyl mixed with lidocaine.
Police say lidocaine has been used before as a cutting agent in illegal drugs, but this is the first time they’ve seen it combined with fentanyl in the metro. Investigators believe it’s coming from the Kansas City area.
Experts say the lidocaine-fentanyl mix can make side effects even more dangerous. Lidocaine, a local anesthetic, blocks nerve signals—and unlike fentanyl, its effects can’t be reversed with Narcan.
Police urge the public to stay alert and call 911 immediately if an overdose is suspected. Nebraska’s Good Samaritan Law protects people who seek help for an overdose from certain drug-related charges.
Anyone with information can call Omaha Police at (402) 444-4877 or leave an anonymous tip with Omaha Crime Stoppers at (402) 444-STOP, online at omahacrimestoppers.org, or through the P3 Tips app.
