‘They’re ODing everywhere’: 6 people hospitalized after reports of mass overdose in downtown Indy

INDIANAPOLIS — Six people were hospitalized Friday afternoon after authorities were called to downtown Indianapolis for a possible mass overdose.

EMS, fire and police crews were called just before 3 p.m. to 301 E. Washington Street for an “overdose scene.” This area is near the N. Alabama St. and E. Washington St. intersection, across the street from the Julia Carson Transit Center and the City-County Building.

Indianapolis Fire officials say 911 callers reported several people possibly overdosing on scene.

“One is laying in a pile of water, one rolled in the street and busted his face,” one 911 caller said.

“They’re just ODing everywhere,” another said. “There’s one, two, three, four, five of them.”

Upon arrival, crews found six people – four of whom were struggling to breathe – experiencing “symptoms consistent with a drug overdose.” IMPD said officers gave Narcan to at least one person on scene, but the Narcan reportedly did not reverse the symptoms.

All six people were taken to various Indianapolis hospitals for treatment. Five of those six patients were in critical condition, according to IFD Battalion Chief Rita Reith. IMPD officials said around 4:40 p.m. that one of the people had already been released.

IMPD also said that all six individuals are believed to be adults.

In a briefing with media, IMPD Chief Chris Bailey said that the area is a hot spot for drug use and other crime. IMPD crime analysts reportedly identified people passing out in Presidential Place Park before 911 calls came in by using cameras.

Preliminary information from police shows the substance involved was likely a form of “spice” – a synthetic drug that is often coated in bug or roach spray before being sold and smoked. Bailey said the drug is relatively cheap and that unhoused people are particularly vulnerable to overdosing on it. He said officers are aware of the drug and that it is not a new phenomenon.

Bailey said that an arrest was made by IMPD on Thursday in the same area for alleged drug dealing. IMPD, DEA and Indiana State Police crews are now investigating.

FOX59/CBS4’s tower camera showed a heavy police and EMS presence in the road and portions of Presidential Place Park taped off. Alabama Street was shut down at Market Street for around an hour as police investigated.

No other information has been confirmed by local authorities.