Dispensary that may be linked to fatal overdose in Garden River shuts down during investigation

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First Nation dispensary voluntarily closed after series of overdoses

Youth ODs in northern Ont. on what he thought was cannabis

The owners of the cannabis dispensary that is possibly linked to drug overdoses in Garden River First Nation have closed their facility while the police investigate what happened.

One person has died and another is in hospital after both young people inhaled a bong using cannabis purchased at Little Green Garden dispensary located on the First Nation.

Police are investigating whether the cannabis was cut with a much stronger drug.

“We would like to extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and community members affected by the recent overdoses here in Garden River,” said a social media post from the dispensary on June 12.

“It has come to our attention that cannabis purchased from Little Green Garden was present at both incidents. Out of an abundance of caution, and at the request of the Anishinabek Police Service, we have temporarily closed the store while the cause of these overdoses is investigated.”

In the fatal overdose, police said a group of young people were smoking what they believed to be cannabis from a bong at a residence sometime last week.

“One person was subsequently transported to hospital with symptoms consistent with an overdose and has since died,” police said.

“We do not have any information to indicate that anyone else who consumed from the bong suffered any overdose symptoms.”

A second incident was similar, with a group of people smoking cannabis from a bong. That victim remains in hospital.

There have been no reports of any other related overdoses, police said.

The dispensary said they have provided police with samples “of every cannabis strain in our store … for testing to confirm that the products do not contain any harmful or dangerous substances.”

“The safety and well-being of our customers and community are our highest priorities. We are committed to maintaining rigorous quality standards and providing a safe, reliable source of cannabis products.”

“Our hearts are with the families, loved ones and all those affected by this tragedy,” the post said.

“We stand with our community during this difficult time and remain committed to supporting the ongoing investigation and ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone we serve.”