Inquest into UVic student’s fatal overdose recommends improvements to B.C. and campus emergency response

The recent coroner’s inquest into the tragic overdose death of University of Victoria student, Sidney McIntyre-Starko, has led to a series of recommendations aimed at improving emergency response protocols and drug education in British Columbia. The five-person jury highlighted the need for enhanced education on safe drug use, ensuring that campus buildings are well-equipped with emergency supplies, and updating protocols for campus security and 911 calls.

Sidney McIntyre-Starko, just 18 years old, passed away in January 2024 after ingesting fentanyl in her UVic student residence alongside two dorm-mates. The inquest revealed that despite two of the students falling unconscious and showing signs of distress, campus security officers trained in first aid and naloxone did not administer the life-saving drug until nine minutes after their arrival. CPR was initiated three minutes later, raising concerns about the delayed response.

The 911 call made during the emergency also faced scrutiny, with the B.C. Ambulance call-taker taking several minutes to determine the exact location of the student residence on campus. Additionally, lifesaving first aid was delayed as the student who placed the call hesitated to disclose the drug use out of fear of repercussions. The inquest also shed light on the software used by the 911 operator, which led to further complications in the emergency response process.

An American expert in emergency medicine suggested a simplified emergency response approach known as “no-no-go” could lead to faster and more effective responses in cases like McIntyre-Starko’s. The tragic incident underscores the urgency of addressing drug overdoses in British Columbia, where over 16,000 people have lost their lives to toxic drugs since the public health emergency was declared in 2016. Unregulated drug toxicity remains the leading cause of death in the province for individuals aged 10 to 59.

Coroners’ inquests serve as public inquiries to unravel the circumstances surrounding a death without assigning blame. The recommendations put forth by the jury aim to prevent similar tragedies in the future by improving emergency response systems and enhancing drug education across the province. It is essential for government, schools, and emergency dispatch services to heed these suggestions and work towards creating a safer environment for all residents of British Columbia.