The number of people dying from toxic drugs in British Columbia continued to decline in April, with the showing an average of just under four deaths per day across the province, according to the B.C. Coroners Service.
In total, 119 people died in April due to suspected unregulated drug toxicity. That’s a notable decrease from 165 deaths reported in the same month last year.
It also marks one of the lowest monthly totals so far in 2026, second only to February.
Despite the downward trend, the crisis continues to have a measurable impact in Northern B.C.
The Northern Health region has recorded 47 toxic drug deaths so far this year, accounting for 8.6 per cent of all deaths in the province. In Northeast B.C., eight deaths have been reported in 2026.
Provincial data shows the majority of deaths are occurring indoors, with 81 per cent happening in locations such as private homes, social housing or shelters.
The crisis also continues to disproportionately affect certain demographics. About 68 per cent of those who died were between the ages of 30 and 59, and 76 per cent were men.
Health officials say highly potent synthetic opioids remain a major driver. Fluorofentanyl was the most commonly detected substance, found in roughly two-thirds of tested cases. Cocaine, fentanyl and methamphetamine were also present in more than half of deaths.
Smoking remains the most common method of consumption, accounting for 70 per cent of cases.
While the latest figures show a decline in deaths to roughly four per day, the B.C. Coroners Service says toxic drugs continue to pose a significant public health challenge including in smaller and northern communities.