Sharp Rise In Deaths Among People Experiencing Homelessness Continues In 2022

The deaths of at least 342 people experiencing homelessness were reported to the BC Coroners Service in 2022, continuing an increase in deaths among the unhoused population of 138% in the past two years.

From 2015-2022, there were 1,464 deaths involving individuals identified as experiencing homelessness in British Columbia, equating to an average of 183 deaths per year.

There was a significant increase from this average in 2021 and 2022.

Almost three quarters of those who died were aged between 30 and 59, and 82 percent were male.

The Coroners Service says just as it has across all demographics and in communities throughout B.C., the toxic drug supply has significantly contributed to the increased number of deaths among people who are precariously housed or experiencing homelessness.

More than eight out of every 10 deaths in the review period were classified as accidental, and of those accidental deaths, more than nine in 10 were determined to have been caused by unregulated drugs.

There is currently a drug poisoning advisory in place for Campbell River.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.