In 2022, there were (499) accidental drug deaths in New Orleans, compared to (492) in 2021.

In 2022, 77% were male, and 23% were female, similar to previous years.

In 2022, (304) 61% were black, (160) 32% were white, (17) 3% were hispanic, (4) 1% were asian, and (15) 3% were other/unknown. In 2021, (304) 62% were black, (164) 33% were white, (13) 3% were hispanic, (6) 1% were asian, and (5) 1% were other/unknown.

As in previous years, toxicological analysis in most drug-related deaths revealed the presence of multiple drugs. Because we are missing toxicology results for 42 cases–due to these cases being “medical record reviews” (MRRs), for which we do not have access to toxicology results–the following figures would likely be higher, if all toxicology results were available.

In 2022, (406) cases tested positive for fentanyl. Of the 457 cases for which we have toxicology results (out of 499 total cases), 89% tested positive for fentanyl in 2022. In 2021, (434) 94% tested positive for fentanyl.

In 2022, (265) cases tested positive for cocaine. Of the 457 cases for which we have toxicology results (out of 499 total cases), 58% tested positive for cocaine in 2022. In 2021, (281) 60% tested positive for cocaine.

In 2022, (105) tested positive for amphetamines. Of the 457 cases for which we have toxicology results (out of 499 total cases), 23% tested positive for amphetamines in 2022. In 2021, (95) 20% tested positive for amphetamines.

According to New Orleans Coroner, Dr. Dwight McKenna, “Fentanyl remains the greatest threat our community faces in the war on drugs. This year’s report serves as a continued warning to make all citizens aware that (highly lethal) fentanyl continues to be cut into cocaine and street pill supplies, and we must not forget that cocaine overdose also remains a severe threat to life, even when fentanyl is not involved.”