LANSING, Mich. – The University of Michigan Health-Sparrow Office of the Medical Examiner has released its 2026 first-quarter drug report, revealing a persistent crisis fueled by the combination of multiple substances.
Data from January through March 2026 shows that fentanyl and other opioids remain the primary drivers of drug deaths, often in conjunction with stimulants such as cocaine and methamphetamine.
The report covers Clinton, Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Isabella, Livingston and Shiawassee counties. Across the region, most drug-related deaths continue to involve two or more contributing substances, a pattern the report identifies as polysubstance use.
“Polysubstance use remains the dominant pattern observed, with common combinations including opioids and stimulants,” said Michelle Fox, D-ABMDI, Supervisor of Forensic Pathology and Office of Decedent Affairs and Chief Investigator for the Office of the Medical Examiner.
Detailed case data from the report shows the diversity and danger of these combinations. In Ingham County, which recorded the highest number of cases, decedents ranged in age from 10 to 75, with causes of death including mixtures of fentanyl with cocaine, ethanol and methamphetamine. One case in the county listed an “indeterminate” manner of death for a 10-year-old due to methadone toxicity.
Eaton County reported four drug-related deaths during the quarter, including two classified as suicide. These involved combinations of prescription medications.
The report also highlights the emergence of a synthetic chemical that mimics THC in Ionia County, where four accidental deaths occurred.
While total drug-related deaths have declined from peak years earlier in the decade, Fox cautioned that the persistence of fentanyl and the prevalence of polysubstance use remain a public health concern.
“Stimulant involvement, particularly cocaine, remains highly prevalent and often occurs alongside opioids,” Fox said.
The quarterly Drug Report is available online at: UofMHealthSparrow.org/departments-conditions/all-departments/office-medical-examiner/office-medical-examiner-statistical-reports
