Fentanyl Drives Record 45% Rise in Homeless Deaths in Multnomah County in 2023
A county report reveals 456 homeless deaths last year, with fentanyl contributing to 89% of overdose fatalities, but officials see signs of improvement in 2024.
- Multnomah County recorded 456 homeless deaths in 2023, a 45% increase from 2022 and the highest number since tracking began in 2011.
- Fentanyl was a factor in 251 deaths, marking a sharp rise from just 74 fentanyl-related deaths among the homeless in 2022.
- Drug overdoses accounted for 282 deaths, with methamphetamine also contributing to 81% of overdose fatalities.
- Homeless individuals were significantly more likely than the general population to die from overdoses, transportation-related injuries, homicide, or suicide.
- Officials express cautious optimism for 2024, citing early data suggesting a decline in fentanyl-related deaths following local and state emergency measures.
The Seattle Times 
Associated Press 