British Columbia sees 13-month decline in toxic drug deaths—but younger victims rise
British Columbia recorded 150 deaths from unregulated toxic drugs in October 2025. This figure marks an 8% drop compared to the same month last year. The decline continues a 13-month trend of falling overdose fatalities across the province.
The latest data shows about 4.8 people died each day in October from unregulated substances. Most victims were aged between 30 and 59, forming the largest group affected. Meanwhile, deaths among those 18 and younger rose slightly, from 17 in the first 10 months of 2024 to 21 in the same period this year.
The province has now seen 13 straight months of year-on-year decreases in overdose deaths. While progress is evident, younger age groups remain a concern due to rising fatalities. Authorities continue monitoring the situation as harm-reduction measures evolve.
