Four suspected overdose deaths reported in one week as investigators work to determine possible links.
REGIONAL NEWS: The Robeson County Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to remain vigilant following a recent increase in suspected drug overdose deaths across the county.
According to Sheriff Wilkins, four individuals have died in suspected drug-related overdoses during the past week, including three deaths reported over the weekend.
Authorities said the deaths have occurred in multiple areas of the Robeson County, including the Pembroke-Maxton area, eastern Lumberton, and the northern Lumber Bridge-St. Pauls region. Investigators have not identified a single community or specific area as the source of concern.
While the circumstances surrounding each death remain under investigation, the sheriff’s office said it is sounding the alarm due to the sudden increase in fatalities and the ongoing dangers associated with illicit drug use.
“Four lives lost in one week are four too many,” Wilkins said in a public statement.
The sheriff emphasized that individuals using illicit drugs often have no way of knowing exactly what substances may be present in those drugs or whether they could be mixed with potentially deadly substances. He encouraged anyone who continues to use drugs to avoid using alone and to ensure someone nearby can recognize the signs of an overdose and call 9-1-1 if needed.
Officials also reminded the public that naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, can reverse opioid overdoses but may not be effective in overdose situations involving every type of drug. Anyone who suspects an overdose should administer Narcan if available and immediately contact emergency services.
Detectives with the sheriff’s office Criminal Investigations Division and members of the newly formed Border Belt Drug Task Force are actively investigating the recent deaths to determine whether there are any common factors or substances involved.
Authorities are asking anyone with information related to the overdose deaths or the distribution of dangerous drugs to contact investigators at drugs@robesoncountysonc.gov or submit tips through the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office mobile app.
The sheriff’s office also encouraged individuals struggling with addiction to seek help through its Substance Abuse Freedom & Education (SAFE) Program. Those seeking assistance can contact the program at safe@robesoncountysonc.gov to learn about treatment and recovery resources.
Out of respect for the affected families, the sheriff’s office said it will not be releasing the identities of the deceased.
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