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Ten years ago, B.C. declared a public health emergency over the toxic drug supply. Fentanyl remains at the centre of the crisis, but a veterinary sedative called medetomidine is increasingly showing up in the illicit supply — and when combined with fentanyl, the results can be deadly. Robyn digs into the latest numbers below.

– Emily

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The BC Coroners Service released its February data on toxic drug deaths in the province. During the shortest month, 115 people lost their lives to the poisonous drug supply, representing an average of 4 deaths a day.

Twenty of these people were in the Fraser Health jurisdiction, making it the lowest monthly drug death toll for the health authority in the last year.

Still, Fraser Health had the second-highest number of drug deaths in the province (Vancouver Coastal Health had the highest with 38 lives lost). 

So far this year, there have been 62 deaths confirmed to be linked to the toxic drug supply in Fraser Health, the vast majority of whom were male, representing nearly 90% of Fraser Valley drug deaths. 

A new drug is gaining ground»

📬 Canada Post is ending door-to-door mail delivery to roughly 17,000 addresses in Abbotsford and Mission, converting V2S, V2T, and V2V postal codes to community mailboxes starting in late 2026. [CBC News]

🐾 The BC SPCA rescued four dogs and a cat from a filth-filled RV in Chilliwack on April 1, finding the animals suffering from skin conditions and living among feces and garbage. All five are now recovering in care. [Castanet]

🏛️ The BC Farm Museum in Fort Langley is seeking a $9-million expansion after running out of space for its 6,500 artifacts. Langley Township council unanimously agreed to apply on the museum's behalf to the Canada Community Building Fund. [Aldergrove Star]

⚠️ Fourteen people were assessed and treated by paramedics after a hazmat incident at Kinsmen Park playground in Chilliwack on April 17. No one required hospitalization and the nature of the substance has not been confirmed. [CityNews]

🔥 Abbotsford police are investigating three arson incidents at two local schools — Bakerview Centre for Learning and Godson Elementary — that occurred between April 13 and 18. No arrests have been made. [CBC News]

🧹 Hope has resumed its seasonal Friday street sweeping program. Residents are asked to avoid street parking on sweeping days. [District of Hope]

🚗 An Abbotsford man was arrested and charged with two counts of arson after allegedly setting two vehicles on fire on Gladwin Road and South Fraser Way on April 16. [Fraser Valley Today]

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Cheng2 Duo and James Campbell: The Valley Concert Society presents cellist-pianist duo Cheng2 and clarinetist James Campbell in an evening of clarinet trios by Beethoven, Brahms, and others at Matsqui Centennial Auditorium on April 24.

Pro D Camp at EcoFarm: On April 24, join EcoFarm Discovery Centre for a full-day camp for ages 5–12 featuring animals, crafts, and farm activities. Spaces are limited.

Earth Day Celebration in Langley: On April 25, Langley City's fifth annual Earth Day event at Douglas Park brings together 25 exhibitor booths, bike repairs, electronics recycling, and a container gardening workshop. Free admission.

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