The following is a press release from Dr. Steven J. Seele, Coroner
The Howard County Health Department-Vital Records Division recorded 256 deaths in Howard County for the 3rd Quarter of 2019 which ended September 30, 2019. Of those deaths, 65 were investigated by the Howard County Coroner’s Office. 40 of those cases were determined to be due to natural causes. There were 2 homicides, 3 suicides, and 17 accidental deaths. There is 1 Case that is still pending investigation.
Of the 17 accidental deaths, 10 were the result of drug overdoses, 3 were due to motor vehicle accidents, 1 due to accidental asphyxia, 1 due to drowning, and 2 as the result of accidental falls.
Of the 10 overdose cases, 8 were the result of opiate abuse. Of the opiate cases, 2 involved heroin and 5 involved Fentanyl. Methamphetamine was involved in 5 of the cases and 6 cases involved non-opiate polysubstance abuse which includes benzodiazepines and other non-scheduled legend prescription drugs.
Of the 65 cases investigated by the Howard County Coroner’s office in the 3rd quarter, there were 31 autopsies conducted with 30 toxicology studies performed for a total cost of $52,078.00 to the County.
This brings the total overdose deaths in Howard County to 28 for the year which is 2 more than we had at the same time in 2018 but 9 less than we had in 2017 which was the deadliest year on record for Howard County for drug overdose deaths.
Howard County has options for those with drug addiction issues. Specifically, Turning Point – System of Care which focuses on youth and families who are impacted by mental health and substance abuse disorders. They may be reached by calling 765-860-8365.
