The BC Coroners Service has reported 40 drug-toxicity deaths on Vancouver Island in July and August.
Preliminary data shows 17 deaths in July and 23 in August.
On the Central Island, 11 deaths were reported in July and nine in August. The North Island recorded one death in July and two in August, while the South Island had five deaths in July and 12 in August.
Provincewide, 239 people died from drug toxicity during the two months, including 113 in July and 126 in August.
“In July and August, 188 deaths due to drug toxicity were male and 51 were female. So far in 2026, males account for 76% of unregulated drug deaths reported to BCCS, and females 24%,” said a statement from the province.
