Winnipeg records major drop in overdose deaths since 2021

Winnipeg recorded a four-year low in overdose-related deaths, between January 1, 2025, and June 30, 2025, a total of 203 deaths were recorded.
In 2024, that number was 307, according to data from the office of the chief medical examiner.

The recent decrease follows at least five consecutive years of increases. However, the drop in fatalities comes alongside a rising number of overdoses.

“I am relieved that fewer people have died. That does not mean the problem is smaller. There is an incredible number of overdoses happening.” Mitch Bourbonniere, a community activist and outreach worker.

“It does not mean that the suffering is any less. In fact, there just seem to be more and more overdoses. But we are able to reach people faster through first responders and outreach groups, so fewer people are dying.”

Main Street Project shares optimism over the decrease, while noting the numbers are preliminary and subject to change.

“Any reduction in fatalities is welcome. I still think one death is too many. Two hundred is far too many,” said Karen Murison, the interim director of community initiatives at Main Street Project.

Local non-profits say naloxone training and distribution help reduce overdose deaths. More kits are being handed out by outreach workers.

“People ask for naloxone kits all the time. I believe they’re helping each other and themselves,” said Bourbonniere.