CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, S.C. – Law enforcement officials in Chesterfield County, South Carolina, are currently investigating the tragic deaths of three individuals due to suspected fentanyl poisoning. The incident took place on Monday, August 21, 2023, in the vicinity of McQueen Road, near Chesterfield and Cheraw. The Sheriff’s Office has reported that no arrests have been made in connection with the incident.
Two of the victims were discovered on McQueen Road, while another individual had passed away earlier in the same neighborhood. According to Sheriff Cambo Streater, fentanyl was found at the first location, and drugs were also found at the second location, indicating possible fentanyl involvement. Sheriff Streater also revealed that another individual in the hospital is on life support and is believed to be connected to the incident.
In a heartbreaking revelation, Sheriff Streater disclosed that he has a personal connection to the drug, having tragically lost his daughter to fentanyl earlier in the year. He emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “Fentanyl’s taking over. We’re trying our best, it’s out there, and we’re investigating numerous deaths right now in Chesterfield County where drugs are involved, and we’re waiting on the toxicology, but we’re pretty sure fentanyl’s involved.”
Authorities are urging the public not to touch or consume any substances they suspect may contain fentanyl and to immediately contact law enforcement if they encounter such substances. As the investigation unfolds, the Sheriff’s Office, Coroner, Lancaster County Coroner, and State Law Enforcement Division are all actively involved.
This unfortunate incident sheds light on the ongoing battle against the opioid crisis, particularly the prevalence of lethal drugs like fentanyl. The impact of these deaths underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to combat substance abuse and prevent further tragedies.