Death of 15-year-old in Campbell River from suspected drug overdose prompts warning

The tragic death of a 15-year-old in Campbell River, B.C., from a suspected drug overdose has prompted a warning from the RCMP.

The investigation into the teen’s death led police to believe that a combination of Dilaudid (hydromorphone) and non-prescription cough medication was the cause of the fatal overdose.

“It’s extremely important for youth and parents to understand the dangers that are posed by all drugs, including the use of prescription and non-prescription medications,” Const. Maury Tyre with the Campbell River RCMP said in a statement.

“Although police do speak in schools and offer drug and alcohol education, there is a need for this information to be regularly re-affirmed in the home and in the community to safeguard our youth. The reality is, this kind of tragedy affects people of all walks of life and socio-economic levels, sometimes through addiction, and sometimes through experimentation.”

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RCMP is not releasing any further details about the teen.

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In a statement, Health Minister Josie Osborne called the death “devastating.’

“Youth need access to age-appropriate mental health and substance use services,” she said.

“We are committed to expanding youth mental health and addiction services in every health authority, including the creation of new Foundry Centres and new youth substance-use beds, as well as hiring additional specialists to support young people.”

But BC Conservative public safety critic Elenore Sturko said the tragedy raised serious questions.

“We are talking about susbsatnces that are reasonably easy to get unfortunately, cough syrup can be purchased in many, many stores, and unfortunately, hydromorphone has become not only cheap but easily accessible by youth in the province and still the government’s safe supply program continues to divert drugs unabated onto the streets of British Columbia — I would be very curious to find out where this hydromorphone came from,” she said.

“My deepest condolences to the family, but this was an entirely preventable situation and it’s compounded in its tragedy by the young age of this person.”

Anyone wishing to report a crime or ongoing criminal activity is asked to contact the Campbell River RCMP at 250-286-6221. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477.