New York

13 Arrested in Connection to Dozens of K2 Overdoses Across Brooklyn: NYPD

At least 30 people have overdosed since Saturday on an alleged bad batch of synthetic marijuana

What to Know

  • Nearly 50 people have overdosed in New York City from synthetic marijuana, also known as K2, since Friday, sources say
  • Bed-Stuy saw 25 overdoses with 15 people taken to the hospital this weekend; East New York saw at least 15 people overdose, sources say
  • Sources say a bad batch across the area may be the culprit and the numbers of victims are expected to increase

Nearly 50 people have overdosed in New York City from synthetic marijuana, also known as K2, in five separate locations since Friday, police say. 

NYPD Chief of Department Terence Monahan said a particularly toxic batch of K2 have triggered 49 overdose cases at five different locations in Brooklyn. Over a dozen of them were transported to multiple area hospitals. 

"K2 is a dangerous, deadly drug, but this strain is especially threatening," Monahan said in a statement. "All residents who live near these five locations are warned about exceedingly dangerous K2 batches in circulation, and advised to avoid usage."

The NYPD says it's arrested 13 people so far in K2 sales, and is investigating the specific source of the current K2 distribution.  

The area of Broadway and Myrtle saw 15 overdoses; Fulton Street and Alabama Avenue in East New York had 21; Ralph Avenue and Eastern Parkway in Crown Heights 7; Van Sinderen Avenue in Brownsville 2; and Atlantic Avenue and Sackman Street 4. 

With more overdose cases being actively investigated, the numbers of victims are expected to increase, according to sources.

News 4 cameras captured one man apparently high on K2 stumbling down Atlantic Avenue in East New York, then falling to the ground, spasming, prompting a News 4 reporter to call police for help.

Bedford-Stuyvesant restaurant owner Domingo Fernandez said people there were falling like flies. 

"Smoking, falling down; smoking, falling down," he said. "They need help. Lots of help." 

Contact Us