POLICE have confirmed that they are investigating three more deaths in Barnsley that are potentially linked to a deadly batch of heroin.
There are new seven deaths being investigated, of which all are believed to be drugs and possibly heroin related, however officers say they are keeping an open mind as to the circumstances surrounding each death and continue to explore whether there are any connections between them.
The most recent death was reported on Wednesday afternoon (May 4) with the two others reported within 24-hours of each other; one on the evening of Thursday, April 20, and then the second on the morning of Friday, April 21.
Enquiries are ongoing and toxicology reports are underway.
Previous warnings issued across the Yorkshire and Humber region indicated that batches of heroin may have been contaminated with Carfentanyl - and animal tranquilser - and another substance called Fentanyl, an anaesthesia 100 times more potent than street heroin.
Assistant Chief Constable Tim Forber said: “Officers in South Yorkshire are working closely with investigative teams across the Yorkshire and Humber region to piece together the information we have gathered as part of our enquiries into this series of incidents.
“We continue to work with our partners in public health to raise awareness of the risks to drug users and I would urge anyone who has concerns, or has taken a substance and feels unwell, to please seek medical advice immediately.
“I would encourage anyone with information about those who may be involved in illegal drugs supply in Barnsley or anywhere in our county, to please call police on 101 or anonymously make contact with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
