On Sunday, March 6, 2022, Officers responded to a suspected overdose death of a high-school-aged juvenile. In the teen’s possession was suspected fentanyl pills commonly known as “M30s.” PPB is releasing photos of M30 pills. If you find any such pills, do not handle them and immediately contact authorities.
The DEA states that counterfeit pills are nearly identical to actual prescription medications. The majority of counterfeit pills resemble oxycodone 30mg pills (M30s), but can also mimic hydrocodone, alprazolam (Xanax), Adderall, and other medications.
It is being reported that drug trafficking organizations are specifically targeting kids and teens by creating counterfeit pills in a variety of shapes and bright colors to appeal to that age group. Counterfeit M30 pills can vary in color from white to blue. Healthcare officials say that the best way to avoid counterfeit medication is to take only medications prescribed by a licensed medical professional and dispensed by a registered pharmacist.
In Portland, local police said that they are protecting the identity of the juveniles involved in the two overdose deaths and provide privacy for their loved ones. The Portland Police Bureau also stated that it does not typically release information on death investigations. However, it believes that doing so in this case could lead to saved lives.
Officers responded to the second suspected overdose death of a high-school-aged juvenile. The teen had pills that were suspected to be fentanyl pills. These pills looked similar to the ones found the day before.
Local Police are working in partnership with local and federal law enforcement partners to track down the source of the pills responsible for the overdose deaths. The Medical Examiner will formerly determine cause of death via toxicology reports.
