4 Dead and Dozens Ill After Drug Overdose in Middle Georgia

ATLANTA – The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH), along with state and local police are investigating a dangerous, potentially lethal substance contained in street drugs surfacing in central and South Georgia. Dozens of patients have been hospitalized and at least four people are dead.

The overdoses have been reported over a 48-hour period in Centerville, Perry, Macon, Warner Robins and Albany, but the drugs may also be sold on the street in other areas of the state. Patients reportedly purchased yellow pills alleged to be Percocet, an opioid pain medication.

The substance has not yet been identified but it is extremely potent and has required massive doses of naloxone (Narcan) to counteract its effects. Testing is being done to identify the pills and the ingredients.

First responders say patients are unconscious or unresponsive and have difficulty breathing or have stopped breathing. Many patients need to be placed on ventilators.