‘A very encouraging trend’: Lethbridge sees drop in overdose deaths

The number of overdose deaths in Lethbridge appears to be declining.

The city also no longer leads the province in highest overdose deaths per capita.

In the first three months of 2025, Lethbridge only recorded two overdose deaths.

That includes no deaths being recorded in March.

Lethbridge peaked with 124 overdose deaths in 2023.

But by 2024, the number was down to 42.

If the current trend holds, Lethbridge would see its lowest number of overdose deaths since at least 2016.

The province provided a statement on the drop in overdoses, saying, “This is a very encouraging trend.”

“There have also been slight decreases in EMS responses and emergency department visits related to substance use in Lethbridge,” the province said.

“While we have made significant strides towards responding to the addiction crisis, more work continues to increase access to treatment and recovery from the disease of addiction.”