Despite More Opioids on the Streets, Officials Say Overdose Deaths are Falling in Springfield

City officials say the number of overdose deaths due to heroine and fentanyl is falling in Springfield, despite police finding more drugs in the area.

In 2022, Springfield Police seized four times as many opiates in 2022 than it did in 2021.

Despite that, health officials reported less deaths from drug overdoses last year than in 2021.

Experts say the drop in deaths can be attributed to the overdose drug Narcan becoming more widely available, as well as city groups helping those with addiction find paths to sobriety.