Man charged with manslaughter after woman dies of heroin overdose in Canberra
A man has been charged over a woman’s death in Canberra, after she was allegedly injected with a lethal dose of heroin earlier this year.
The 24-year-old man allegedly had the woman’s consent to be injected with heroin at the time, but failed to seek treatment as the woman was overdosing.
“It will be alleged that the man failed to seek medical assistance appropriately and failed to properly administer a life-saving dose of Narcan (opioid reversal drug) at the time,” ACT Police said.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The woman was brought to the North Canberra Hospital in an unconscious state on June 5.
She died in hospital a short time later.
ACT Police then arrived back at the scene to begin their investigation.
“During this investigation (and in similar matters ACT Policing is investigating) a number of contributory factors were identified,” ACT Police said.
“The mixture of different types of intoxicating substances which can significantly increase the risk of death to an illicit drug user.
“The incorrect initial administration of Narcan. While Narcan nasal sprays are freely available and are relatively simple to use, if not used appropriately they provide no assistance to a person who may be overdosing.
“The importance of monitoring people after they have consumed illicit substances and immediately calling for medical help if they are unresponsive.”
The 24-year-old man was charged on Friday with manslaughter, and administer a declared substance.
He was also charged with traffic in cannabis.
He was set to appear in the ACT Magistrates Court on Friday.
“ACT Policing urges all illicit drug users, especially those using depressive drugs such as heroin, to be aware of the dangers and to consider their and other users’ safety. Do not hesitate to call triple-0 in an emergency,” ACT Police said.
If you are concerned about yours or a loved one’s use of alcohol or other drugs, call for free, confidential advice, information and counselling from the National Alcohol and Other Drug hotline, 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 1800 250 015.
Originally published on 7NEWS
