The fatal effects of fentanyl have a widespread impact throughout NH, and the entire country. While many people think that fentanyl will never affect them or their families, the deadly drug does not discriminate, and often is a lot closer to home than most families think or would like to admit.

The fentanyl crisis has the power to affect anyone of any age, gender or occupation. Unlike other illicit drugs, fentanyl is now being found in almost all types of drugs being sold illegally. Anyone purchasing and ingesting illicit drugs is at risk, whether it be a first-time user or a longtime sufferer of addiction.

The deadly consequences of fentanyl continue to reach communities not typically associated with illicit drug overdoses, like professional athletes and household names. Former MLB infielder Sean Burroughs was found dead in a parking lot in Long Beach, California in May. His death was recently ruled accidental, the cause was found to be fentanyl intoxication.

In 2011, Burroughs admitted to ESPN that he had previously struggled with substance abuse issues during his final seasons in MLB. Burroughs was the ninth-overall pick in the 1998 MLB draft and played seven seasons of professional baseball, he also earned a gold medal in the 2000 Olympics while playing for team USA.

Burroughs’s death adds to the growing list of celebrities and household names who have fallen victim to fentanyl poisoning. The stories and names of those whose lives were cut short, serve as a stark reminder of the presence of this lethal drug in communities across the country.