09/06/2026
⚠️ URGENT COMMUNITY WARNING: SYNTHETIC OPIOID DANGER ⚠️
In August, the Fayetteville Police Department responded to an alarming increase in overdoses which appear to be caused by synthetic opioids. This sudden spike prompted severe concern a particularly potent or contaminated illegal drug supply is currently circulating in our region. As a result, we issued a warning to the community on August 13, 2026.
Tragically, these dangers were highlighted once again overnight (September 5, 2026).
Officers responded to a call for service where it appears three people ingested a substance suspected of being a synthetic opioid. Upon arrival, officers began lifesaving measures, including CPR, and summoned emergency medical personnel to the scene.
The results of this synthetic opioid use are devastating: two people died, and one person was transported to the hospital in serious condition.
Our immediate priority is preventing the additional loss of life. Synthetic opioids do not discriminate, and one exposure can be fatal. We urge friends and family members to have those difficult, but necessary, conversations with loved ones struggling with substance abuse. Warn them about this circulating danger and encourage them to seek help before it is too late. We ask everyone in our community to take this warning seriously and to call 911 immediately if an overdose is suspected.
We are actively investigating and working with our local, state, and federal partners to identify the sources of these illegal narcotics entering our community in order to bring those responsible to justice.
We Are Here to Help: The LEAD Program
We know arresting our way out of the addiction crisis is not the answer. The Fayetteville Police Department is proud to utilize the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) program. LEAD allows our officers to divert individuals struggling with substance use disorders away from the criminal justice system and connect them directly with community based behavioral health treatment, housing, and recovery services. We want to help you get your life back.
Carry Naloxone (Narcan) – It Saves Lives
Naloxone is a safe, easy to use, lifesaving nasal spray that can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose and restore breathing.
• Without a Prescription: Under North Carolina's statewide standing order, anyone can get Naloxone at most local pharmacies without needing a doctor's prescription. You can contact your local pharmacy to determine whether it is currently dispensing naloxone under a standing order.
• Free Local Access: Free Naloxone is provided by the Cumberland County Department of Public Health (located at 1235 Ramsey Street).
• Find It Near You: You can find information on pharmacies and community distribution sites across the state at NaloxoneSaves-NC.org.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse or addiction, please know you are not alone and recovery is possible.
We strongly encourage you to reach out to the appropriate resources today.
• SAMHSA National Helpline: Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information.
• 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 to be connected with trained counselors who can help with substance use and mental health crises.