Two West Point cadets are in critical condition and four were treated after overdosing on fentanyl-laced cocaine while on spring break in Florida on Thursday. Police arrived at an Airbnb rental home the cadets were renting and found six people suffering from cardiac arrest.
The West Point students were staying in Wilton Manors, a community located just north of Fort Lauderdale.
According to the Wilton Manors Police Department, on Thursday at approximately 4:58 pm, officers responded to 811 Northwest 29th Court in reference to a reported medical emergency.
“Further investigation revealed that six males were feeling the effects of a drug overdose. Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue responded to the scene and rendered aid to the male patients,” the Wilton Manor Police Department said. “Four patients were transported to Broward General Medical Center and two were transported to Holy Cross Hospital.”
A seventh female patient was later transported to the hospital after feeling ill.
“Officers from the Wilton Manors Police Department took precautionary measures by evacuating and securing the residence due to the unidentified powdery substance,” the department said. “The Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue Hazmat Team responded to the scene, tested the material, and discovered the substance was laced with the powerful and deadly synthetic opioid drug, Fentanyl.”
Investigators from the Wilton Manors Police Department and Broward Sheriff’s Office announced they have made an arrest in connection to this incident.
“At this time, the investigation has revealed the involved patients are college students on spring break from the State of New York and were at the residence identified as a vacation rental,” the department said. “This incident serves as a stark reminder to all, especially those visiting for Spring Break, of the deadly impacts of Fentanyl. This synthetic opioid continues to have detrimental impacts on many communities, and our agency remains committed to drug prevention and intervention initiatives.”
The students may also face drug charges, the department added.
The U.S. Military Academy at West Point did not respond to a request for comment regarding the incident.