2021 saw another increase in overdose deaths in Saskatchewan.

According to the Saskatchewan Coroners Service, 225 confirmed overdose deaths with 239 suspected overdose deaths, bringing the total to 464.

That total marks the fifth consecutive year the province has seen an increase in overdose deaths. In 2020 there were 327 deaths, with 2019 seeing only 179.

Of the 225 confirmed deaths, 208 were accidental overdoses, with the majority of the confirmed deaths resulting from fentanyl.

Regina led the way in the province as 111 overdoses were reported, accounting for just under half (49%) of the province’s confirmed overdoses. Saskatoon was next with 61 confirmed overdoses.