Drug overdose deaths in N.H. decreased by 35 percent in 2024
'The significant declines in fatal overdoses demonstrate that New Hampshire's all-hands-on-deck commitment is effectively addressing the opioid addiction and overdose crisis,' said Lori A. Weaver, commissioner of the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services.
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Weaver credited the state's
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Robert L. Quinn, commissioner of the New Hampshire Department of Safety, said law enforcement leaders are likewise pleased with the reduction in overdose deaths, though they recognize there is more work to do.
'While this progress is promising, we must continue to prioritize our collaborative enforcement efforts across the state to ensure we prevent these substances from entering into our communities,' Quinn said.
About half of the drug overdose fatalities in New Hampshire — 135 — were attributable to fentanyl alone in 2024, while another 82 fatalities were attributable to fentanyl in combination with other drugs, according to the medical examiner's data.
Governor Kelly A. Ayotte, a Republican who took office in January after campaigning last year on promises to combat drugs and crime, said the state will build on the progress reflected in these latest numbers and remain vigilant in its drug interdiction efforts, while also supporting those in recovery.
This story first appeared in Globe NH | Morning Report, our free newsletter focused on the news you need to know about New Hampshire, including great coverage from the Boston Globe and links to interesting articles from other places. If you'd like to receive it via e-mail Monday through Friday,
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