Image: Mike Vanden Bosch / Pattison Media / The data was released on the same day as national overdose figures and a joint funding announcement to address homelessness in B.C.

By Alyssa Conti

HOMELESS DEATHS

Fraser Valley had most homeless deaths in B.C. 2023: Coroner’s Service

Mar 8, 2025 | 12:50 PM

ABBOTSFORD — Data released by the BC Coroner’s Service on Friday (Mar. 8) shows that 458 homeless British Columbians died in 2023– nearly triple the deaths from 2020.

The largest share is found in the Fraser Health region at 117 deaths. Fraser East, which runs from Abbotsford to Hope, saw the third-highest fatalities among all care service areas. Vancouver has the most at 77 deaths.

“The data speaks to the tragic reality of the struggles many face in our communities throughout B.C.,” said Dr. Jatinder Baidwan, chief coroner. “During the period studied, between 2016 and 2023, the deaths of 1,940 people were reported to the BC Coroners Service, identified as experiencing homelessness.”

Eighty-six per cent died from accidental toxic drug use, but new opioid harms data from the Public Health Agency of Canada could have a more promising outlook for all B.C. residents– unhoused or not.

“Within the broader North American context, the U.S. has seen declines in drug overdose deaths since 2023, which also vary by state,” stated the Council of the Chief Medical Officers of Health. “No clear association or drivers of trends have been identified yet. However, early analysis points to similar multi-pronged contributing factors, including changes in the drug supply, widespread use of naloxone, and shifts in at-risk populations.”

PLANE CRASH

2 taken to hospital after small plane crash in Chilliwack

9h ago

GAS STATION FIRE

Firefighters respond after motorhome blaze spreads to gas station near Chilliwack

11h ago

VEHICLE INCIDENT

First responders attend to crash on Lougheed Highway Saturday morning

14h ago

When comparing the first three quarters of 2023 and 2024, figures show a 5 per cent decrease in B.C.’s opioid-related deaths. Drug use still accounts for more deaths than homicides, suicides, accidents and natural diseases combined.

“We recognize that this data represents stories of pain, grief, and loss and does not adequately reflect the burden borne by Canadians,” the Council added.

The provincial and federal governments have announced an agreement of $39.9 million each over two years to help support unhoused people. The funding will be made available in Vancouver, Abbotsford and Kamloops.