Suspected Drug Overdose Sends 25 To Hospital In Baltimore

Authorities say at least 25 individuals were hospitalized in West Baltimore on Thursday morning after what appears to be a mass drug overdose.

Emergency responders were called to the Penn North neighborhood around 9:20 a.m. after receiving reports of multiple people showing signs of overdose, according to fire department officials.

Five of those hospitalized were reported to be in critical condition, while several others were seriously ill.

The incident unfolded near a busy road junction, prompting the Maryland Department of Transportation to temporarily close a nearby subway stop and redirect traffic around the area.

Fire Chief James Wallace said bystanders helped guide emergency crews to victims scattered throughout the scene. People were discovered in several locations, including alleyways, along nearby streets, and even on subway platforms.

No information has been released regarding the substance believed to have caused the overdoses.

Baltimore Police shared a post on X confirming that emergency personnel were responding to “multiple individuals experiencing overdose symptoms” at the intersection. The post also advised residents to avoid the area, noting that several streets were shut down and buses rerouted as a precaution.

City State Attorney Ivan Bates commented on the situation, stating, “This serves as a powerful reminder of our city’s ongoing battle against the opioid epidemic.” He added that his office would assist emergency crews and health officials in their investigation.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore also addressed the incident, saying his administration was working closely with city leaders and first responders.

“I’m grateful to those who quickly alerted us about this situation, and those who are providing support to the community,” Mr Moore said.

In a statement later that day, Mayor Brandon Scott encouraged drug users to take precautions: avoid using drugs alone, and keep Naloxone or Narcan on hand. These overdose-reversing medications are available free of charge from the city’s health department.