Suspected Delaware Drug Overdose Deaths

Description

Suspected drug overdose death counts are derived from two sources provided by the Delaware Division of Forensic Science (DFS): Death Investigation Alerts (DIAs) and late death inquiries. DFS Forensic Investigators generate DIAs at time of scene response of a suspected drug overdose death, and distribute them to DPH Analysts via email listserv. DIAs include initial Forensic Investigator impressions related to a suspected overdose death. Forensic Investigators also generate late death notifcations and distribute them via email listserv. Late death inquiries are disseminated when a suspected overdose decedent succumbs in a hospital. Each week, DPH Analysts collaborate with DFS leadership to ensure that the most accurate possible counts of DIAs and late death inquiries are reported.

Rationale

Although data presented here is preliminary and subject to change as more information becomes available, the Suspected Drug Overdose Deaths Dataset is by far the most timely reflection of overdose mortality available in Delaware. It provides a signal to detect changing trends within a constantly evolving epidemic.

Citation

Delaware Department of Safety and Homeland Security, Division of Forensic Science, https://forensics.delaware.gov/about/index.shtml?dc=aboutUs

Indicators

Name	Latest Date With Data
Suspected Drug Overdose Deaths (Year to Date) Count	09/08/2023
Suspected Drug Overdose Deaths Count	August 2023