New Brunswick RCMP Reports Alarming Rise in Fatal Crashes, Drug Offences

BREAKING: The New Brunswick RCMP’s newly released 2024 report reveals a shocking 18.5% increase in fatal vehicle collisions, alongside a significant surge in drug offences related to cocaine and fentanyl. This urgent update highlights critical public safety concerns that demand immediate attention.

In the past year, the RCMP responded to nearly 6,500 vehicle collisions, with 96 fatalities reported. Cpl. Matthew Leblanc-Smith emphasized that the rise in fatal accidents is alarming and potentially preventable. He noted that an alarming 68% of these fatalities were attributed to irresponsible behaviors such as driving under the influence, speeding, or failing to wear seatbelts.

“[Wearing a seatbelt] has been the law for decades in this country,” Leblanc-Smith stated. “To see it go up again this year is quite unfortunate.” He urged drivers to prioritize safety by avoiding alcohol, adhering to speed limits, and minimizing mobile device use while driving.

Among the fatalities, 24 were due to drug impairment, a slight increase from 22 in 2023. This troubling trend underscores the increasing dangers on New Brunswick roads.

In addition to road safety concerns, the RCMP also reported a more than 7% increase in mental health calls. Responding to these calls presents unique challenges, often requiring transportation to medical facilities. “The mobile health crisis unit has social workers who can speak over the phone to a person in distress and come up with solutions that way,” Leblanc-Smith explained.

In 2024, total calls for service reached just over 150,000, reflecting a 1% increase from the previous year.

The report also highlighted a staggering 65% increase in drug offences related to cocaine and fentanyl, which aligns with troubling national trends. The RCMP recorded 333 cocaine offences and 80 fentanyl offences in 2024, raising alarms about the escalating drug trafficking issues in New Brunswick.

Megan Barker, a spokesperson for the Fredericton Police Force, reported an increase in drug seizures, noting that there were 53 cocaine seizures in 2024, up from 35 in 2023. Fentanyl seizures rose from 16 in 2023 to 30 in 2024, indicating a growing prevalence of these dangerous substances in the community.

Saint John Police Force spokesperson Shawna Fowler pointed out that while there was no noticeable change in overall drug offences, the data does not break down specific types of drugs involved.

As the RCMP confronts these urgent issues, the community is urged to remain vigilant and responsible. The latest report serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing challenges in public safety and health in New Brunswick.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Authorities will likely implement further strategies and outreach programs to combat these rising trends. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and engaged in discussions about road safety and drug awareness as these issues continue to develop.