New preliminary data from the BC Coroners Service shows 150 people died in October due to unregulated drug toxicity - an average of about 4.8 deaths per day.

For 2025 so far, people between the ages of 30 and 59 make up 70-percent of all drug-toxicity deaths in B.C., and 77-percent of those who died were men.

Nearly half of the deaths occurred in private homes, while 21-percent happened outdoors.

The Fraser and Vancouver Coastal health authorities continue to see the highest numbers this year, with 448 and 408 deaths respectively - together accounting for more than half of all deaths in the province.

Fentanyl and related analogues remain the most common substances detected in toxicology testing.

Among those who underwent expedited testing in 2025, 69-percent had fentanyl in their system, along with fluorofentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine found at similar rates.

Smoking remains the most common method of drug consumption.

The Coroners Service says the data is preliminary and may change as more test results come in.

Other findings this year include a rise in deaths among youth 18 and under - increasing from 17 last year to 21 so far in 2025 - and that the most common industries linked to those who died were trades, transport, equipment operation, and sales and service.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.