NEW JERSEY — Five New Jersey mall workers overdosed after taking fentanyl, city officials say.
While the investigation is still in its early stages, city officials said five women who worked at stores in Riverside Hackensack somehow ingested the deadly drug Wednesday afternoon and did not respond.
First responders rushed to the mall and administered Narcan to the women, all adults between the ages of 29 and 41 with symptoms of overdose. CPR was also performed as part of lifesaving measures and the women were resuscitated.
Four of the five women were taken to hospital, while another refused to be transported.
“It is truly heartbreaking to see the terrible toll caused by these illegal and dangerous substances,” Hackensack Mayor John Labrosse said. “My office has been working closely with law enforcement since this tragic incident was first reported, and we will continue to provide the necessary support to emergency services and the rest of the community as The situation continues to evolve.”
It was not immediately clear how the women ingested fentanyl, but the opioid can be used to mix drugs such as cocaine or heroin to provide a stronger high, authorities said. However, users may be unaware of its presence or unprepared for the intensity of the effect it can have, and die from the powerful drug.
“I want to assure the community that we are already fully investigating this matter to find the source of this dangerous substance, and we will do everything in our power to prosecute those responsible to the fullest extent permitted by law. the law.” Police officer in charge of Hackensack, Capt. Michael Antista.
The investigation, which is being led by the Hackensack Police Department, the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office and the Bergen County District Attorney’s Office, is ongoing.