Synthetic Kratom Overdose in Oxford Prompts Warning Across Northeast Mississippi
By Jon Myers
CORINTH — The Oxford Police Department is warning the public about the potentially deadly dangers of synthetic kratom products after officers responded to a suspected overdose early Thursday morning — and the warning reaches across Northeast Mississippi, including Alcorn County.
On Thursday, Oct. 1, Oxford police responded around 5 a.m. to a residence on Sweetgum Lane after a 22-year-old individual was found unresponsive, the department announced. Emergency medical personnel were able to revive the individual, who was alert and oriented when transported by ambulance for further medical care. The individual is expected to be OK.
The individual is not a student, and the incident is not student-related, according to police.
During the investigation, officers learned the individual had synthetic kratom products in their possession. Based on statements provided to investigators, there is currently no indication the products were purchased in the Oxford area. The Oxford Police Department, working with the Lafayette County Metro Narcotics Unit, is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The department is once again warning the public about the serious and potentially deadly dangers associated with synthetic kratom products. Synthetic and manufactured kratom products can contain powerful and unpredictable substances, police said.
The department stressed that this incident is not connected to the recent death investigations ongoing in the Oxford community.
Oxford police also recognized the emergency medical personnel who responded to the incident and provided immediate care, crediting their quick response and lifesaving actions with ensuring the individual received the medical attention needed.
The Oxford Police Department encourages anyone experiencing or witnessing a suspected overdose to call 911 immediately.
