The BC Coroners Service says 135 people died from suspected unregulated drug toxicity in March. That works out to be about 4.4 deaths per day across the province.

Preliminary data shows people between the ages of 30 and 59 accounted for more than two-thirds of those deaths, while 78-percent of those who died were male.

The highest number of deaths this year have been recorded in the Fraser and Vancouver Coastal health authorities, which together account for more than half of all unregulated drug deaths in B.C.

The Coroners Service says most deaths, 82%, continue to occur indoors, including in private homes, supportive housing, shelters, and single-room occupancy buildings.

17% occurred outdoors, including in vehicles, on sidewalks, streets, and in parks.

Among cases that underwent expedited toxicology testing, fluorofentanyl was the most commonly detected substance, found in 66-percent of deaths, followed by fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine.

Smoking remains the most common method of drug consumption, accounting for 72-percent of cases.

Officials note the figures are preliminary and may change as investigations and toxicology reports are completed.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.