Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - The Rochester Police Department is currently investigating five suspected drug overdose deaths that have occurred in the city since early Friday.

Police Department Communications Coordinator Amanda Grayson says the first incident was reported around 4:45 AM on Friday. It involved a deceased man found outside an apartment building in the 400 block of 31st Street NE.

Two Women and a Man Were Found Dead From Suspected Overdoses Early Tuesday

A little less than five hours later, police responded to a second incident. In that case, Grayson says officers were sent to a residence in the 3500 block of 8th Street Northwest after receiving a report of a male not breathing. Lifesaving measures were attempted at the scene, but were not successful.

Grayson says the most recent incident involved the deaths of three people early today. Officers were dispatched around 1:15 AM to investigate a disturbance at an apartment building in the 1500 block of 3rd Avenue Northeast and discovered a two women and a man dead on the floor inside an apartment.

The police department statement says preliminary investigations into all three incidents indicate that drugs containing fentanyl may have contributed to the deaths.

“Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives,” said Police Chief Jim Franklin. “These tragic deaths are a stark reminder of the potential consequences of illegal narcotics. RPD is aggressively working to identify and arrest those responsible for distributing deadly drugs in our community.”

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Anyone with information concerning the recent suspected drug overdoses or the distribution of illegal drugs in the community is urged to contact the Police Department at 507-328-6800 or leave an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.

The news release concerning the tragic incidents also stressed that anyone struggling with substance use or addiction can receive help through the Police Assisted Recovery Program.

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