CORAM, N.Y. – Suffolk County authorities are sounding the alarm after a suspected “bad batch” of drugs circulating in Coram left three people dead and another hospitalized over the weekend. The incident highlights the continued danger posed by fentanyl-laced street drugs on Long Island, where synthetic opioid-related deaths remain alarmingly high.
According to Suffolk County Police, the cluster of overdoses occurred between Friday, July 11, and Saturday, July 12. Three men – ages 24, 39, and 58 – were found dead in separate locations within the Coram area. A fourth individual, a 24-year-old woman, was revived and hospitalized in critical condition. All four overdoses are believed to be connected to the same batch of drugs, which police suspect were laced with fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid up to 100 times stronger than morphine.
In response to the deaths, Suffolk County’s Medical Crisis Action Team (MedCAT) was deployed, and detectives from both the Homicide and Narcotics units launched an intensive investigation. Early reports indicate that the victims may have been using crack cocaine, not heroin or prescription opioids, suggesting they were unprepared for the lethal potency of fentanyl.
Authorities quickly made two arrests in connection to the case. Police seized approximately 20 grams of powder fentanyl, drug packaging materials, and a firearm from suspects believed to be involved in distributing the contaminated drugs.
The incident is part of a broader trend that continues to impact Long Island communities. Suffolk County, in particular, has experienced one of the highest overdose death rates in New York State – approximately 50% higher than the statewide average, excluding New York City. The driving force behind this public health emergency is fentanyl and its analogues, which have become pervasive in the illegal drug supply.
In 2023, more than 108,000 people in the United States died from drug overdoses, with fentanyl accounting for the vast majority of those deaths. On Long Island, county officials and local nonprofits have taken action to counter the crisis. Naloxone (Narcan), the opioid reversal drug, is now widely available in many public places. Some local businesses, including pharmacies and convenience stores, have begun stocking it behind counters to provide life-saving intervention in emergencies.
Suffolk County law enforcement has also ramped up prosecution efforts targeting fentanyl traffickers. In recent years, the county has brought cases against major distributors, including gang-affiliated dealers responsible for overdose deaths. Prosecutors have emphasized their commitment to pursuing criminal accountability for sellers while expanding support programs for users and families impacted by addiction.
District Attorney Ray Tierney has made the fentanyl crisis a centerpiece of his public platform, noting that drug-related deaths now far outpace homicides in the region. In previous cases, authorities have intercepted not only fentanyl but even stronger compounds such as carfentanil – an elephant tranquilizer estimated to be 100 times more potent than fentanyl – underscoring the escalating danger in the street supply.
As the investigation into the Coram overdoses continues, officials urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious drug activity. They also encourage residents to obtain and carry Narcan, which remains a crucial tool in reversing opioid overdoses and saving lives.
The tragic events in Coram serve as another reminder of the unpredictable and often deadly nature of street drugs in today’s illicit market. Local leaders say education, harm reduction, enforcement, and public cooperation will all be essential in combating the ongoing crisis.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, call the Suffolk County Substance Use Resource Line at 631-979-1700 or visit www.licadd.org for help.
Top Questions About the Suffolk County Drug Overdose Alert – Answered
Q1: What happened in Coram, Long Island?
A: Between July 11 and 12, 2025, three men died and one woman was hospitalized after using a suspected fentanyl-laced drug batch in Coram. All four incidents are believed to be connected.
Q2: What drug was involved?
A: Authorities suspect the individuals consumed crack cocaine that was unknowingly laced with fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic opioid.
Q3: Why is fentanyl so dangerous?
A: Fentanyl is up to 100 times stronger than morphine and can cause fatal overdoses even in extremely small amounts. It is often mixed into other drugs without users’ knowledge.
Q4: Were any arrests made?
A: Yes. Two individuals were arrested in connection to the overdoses. Police recovered powder fentanyl, drug paraphernalia, and a firearm during the investigation.
Q5: What is Suffolk County doing in response?
A: Police deployed specialized units, including the Medical Crisis Action Team (MedCAT), and launched a criminal investigation. The county also continues broader efforts to prosecute dealers and distribute overdose-reversal drugs like Narcan.
Q6: How common are fentanyl-related deaths in Suffolk County?
A: Suffolk County has one of the highest overdose death rates in New York State, with synthetic opioids like fentanyl being the primary cause.
Q7: How can residents protect themselves or others?
A: Residents are encouraged to carry Narcan (naloxone), know the signs of an overdose, and seek immediate medical help if an overdose is suspected. Narcan is increasingly available in public spaces and behind store counters.
Q8: What should someone do if they suspect fentanyl exposure or a bad batch of drugs?
A: Contact 911 immediately. Avoid further use and alert others. You can also report information anonymously to Suffolk County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS.
Q9: Is this part of a larger trend?
A: Yes. The incident reflects a national opioid epidemic driven by fentanyl and synthetic analogues. More than 100,000 overdose deaths were recorded nationwide last year, with similar spikes in suburban and rural communities.
Q10: Where can people get help with addiction on Long Island?
A: Help is available through the Long Island Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence (LICADD) at www.licadd.org or by calling 631-979-1700. Many local health departments also offer treatment and counseling services.
