11 toxicity deaths reported by N.W.T. coroner's office in 2014
'Cases have been investigated where the deceased was a first-time user,' police say
Police in the Northwest Territories say the number of deadly drug overdoses is on the rise in the territory.
Eleven toxicity deaths were reported by the N.W.T. coroner's office last year.
The numbers show a steady increase, from five in 2011 to seven in 2012 and eight in 2013.
RCMP say a number of the deaths were caused by a combination of drugs and alcohol, and some involved long-term drug and alcohol use.
"However, cases have also been investigated where the deceased was a first-time user," a press release says.
Cathy Menard, chief coroner for the N.WT., says a number of recent deaths may also turn out to be overdoses.
Earlier this winter, the chief public health officer issued a warning about "greenies," a type of street fentanyl that is more toxic than other opioids and can kill even in small quantities.
"Illicit fentanyl is very toxic," said Dr. André Corriveau in February. "People need to be aware of this drug, as even small quantities are very concentrated and can cause death."