In brief
A new wave of synthetic drugs is sweeping the United States, raising alarms about a possible resurgence in overdose fatalities. In Chicago’s South Side, residents are grappling with the influx of potent, inexpensive chemicals, including the animal tranquiliser "tranq." Although overdose deaths fell from about 110,000 in 2022 to 70,000 last year, experts warn that the surge in synthetic opioids could reverse that trend. BBC correspondent Quentin Sommerville reports on the frontline efforts, outlining the resilience of local communities and the stark challenges they face.
Warning: This video contains descriptions of drug-taking and distressing images
A new wave of synthetic drugs is sweeping across the United States, escalating fears of a worsening drug crisis. Chicago’s South Side has become a frontline scene as communities grapple with rising usage and overdose incidents.
Earlier this year, President Donald Trump pledged a crackdown on drug cartels, labeling many of them as terrorist organisations. Despite the administration’s hard‑line stance, the pandemic‑driven market has spawned cheaper, more potent chemicals, including the animal tranquiliser known as "tranq".
Nationwide overdose deaths fell from roughly 110,000 in 2022 to about 70,000 last year, but experts warn that the surge in synthetic opioids may soon reverse that decline. The trend is especially dangerous in neighborhoods where pharmacy shortages and economic hardship fuel demand for illicit substitutes.
BBC correspondent Quentin Sommerville has spent weeks filming on the South Side, meeting local residents, law‑enforcement and medical staff who are on the frontlines of the crisis. “Every corner we walk through tells a story of desperation and resilience,” he says.
Camera journalist: Darren Conway
