Dispatch Recordings Released From Music Festival Where 2 Overdosed
COLUMBIA, Md. (WJZ) -- WJZ has obtained the dispatch recordings as a music festival in Howard County turned dangerous. First responders handled dozens of calls, many for possible drug overdoses.
Mike Hellgren reports autopsies are being conducted on the two young people who died.
WJZ pored through hours of Howard County dispatch recordings.
"We're currently en route to facility, priority 2. Seventeen-year-old male. Molly overdose. Altered mental status," said one.
As first responders handled at least 20 possible drug overdoses at the Mad Decent Block Party at Merriweather Post Pavilion.
"Another Molly victim. Twenty-year-old male, checkup after ingesting Molly. Bad trip," another recording said.
Twenty people were taken to Howard County General Hospital. Two died.
"From Merriweather. Priority 2. About a five minute ETA. Twenty-three-year-old male. Unresponsive. Overdose," a call said.
"We're currently en route to facility, priority 2. Seventeen-year-old male. Molly overdose. Altered mental status," a call said.
WJZ has confirmed that 17-year-old was Daniel Anders. A letter went out to his classmates at Hylton High in Woodbridge, Virginia. The principal called it a difficult time and grief counselors are on hand after his death.
"Twenty-two year old male. Patient thinks someone possibly slipped something in his drink," another call said.
The other victim is Tyler Viscardi, a University of Maryland student whose family said they believe someone slipped something in his water. Police believe the overdose deaths may be linked to the party drug Molly or ecstasy.
Several artists glamorize it.
Dr. Kevin Seamon, Howard County Fire's medical director, says it dangerous because you don't know what chemicals are in it. He said he prepared for problems in advance of Mad Decent, including meetings with hospital officials.
"We met with them beforehand to say we need to plan for this. What do we need to do with this?" he said.
Toxicology tests are now pending on those who died.
A candlelight vigil is being planned for 17-year-old Daniel Anders Wednesday night in front of his high school.
The following is a statement from the Fire Department regarding preparations for this weekend's Moonrise Festival.
"As with every major event that takes place in Baltimore City, we have developed a thorough safety plan that includes the robust deployment of public safety assets and emergency medical technicians, as well as the placement of cooling and hydration stations to minimize the occurrence of medical emergencies related to hyperthermia. On site, over four dozen city and private EMTs will be present, as well as 2 state licensed physicians and incident command staff to monitor conditions during the festival. City agencies, including Fire, Police, and Transportation, along with our private partners, are committed to ensuring the festival is safe for all attendees."
Other Local News:
