In May 2025, a coroner’s jury conducted an inquest into the overdose death of Sidney McIntyre-Starko, an 18-year-old first-year student at the University of Victoria (UVic). The investigation examined the circumstances surrounding his fatal fentanyl-laced cocaine overdose in a campus residence, revealing critical delays and procedural failures in the emergency response. The jury ruled the death accidental and issued ten recommendations targeting educational institutions, campus security, and provincial authorities to improve overdose prevention and response protocols amid British Columbia’s ongoing toxic drug crisis.
Details of the Incident and Emergency Response
On the evening of April 15, 2025, Sidney McIntyre-Starko was found unconscious in his dormitory room at the University of Victoria. Emergency services were called promptly; however, the coroner’s inquest revealed significant delays in administering naloxone, a life-saving medication used to reverse opioid overdoses. Witnesses testified that campus security personnel initially lacked adequate training to identify and respond to overdose symptoms, leading to a critical gap before paramedics arrived.
Findings of the Coroner’s Jury
The coroner’s jury concluded that McIntyre-Starko’s death was accidental, caused by an overdose of fentanyl-adulterated cocaine. The investigation highlighted that despite the presence of multiple support resources on campus, communication between security staff, health services, and emergency responders was insufficient. This disjointed coordination contributed to the delay in delivering timely medical intervention.
Recommendations for Preventive Measures
In response to these findings, the jury issued ten recommendations aimed at preventing similar tragedies. Key proposals include:
- Mandatory overdose response training for all campus security personnel and residence staff.
- Increased availability and visibility of naloxone kits across university residences and common areas.
- Development of standardized overdose reporting and emergency protocols within educational institutions.
- Enhanced collaboration between universities, local health authorities, and provincial emergency services to ensure swift and coordinated responses.
Provincial Context and Broader Implications
British Columbia continues to face a severe toxic drug crisis, with fentanyl-related overdoses accounting for a significant portion of fatalities. The case of Sidney McIntyre-Starko underscores the vulnerabilities faced by young adults in academic settings and the urgent need for systemic reforms. Provincial health officials have acknowledged the importance of the coroner’s recommendations and indicated plans to integrate them into ongoing public health strategies.
University Response and Future Actions
The University of Victoria has expressed commitment to improving campus safety and addressing the gaps identified during the inquest. University representatives stated that they are reviewing current policies on substance use awareness, emergency preparedness, and mental health support services. Additionally, UVic plans to collaborate with student groups and health experts to implement the recommended changes promptly.
Conclusion
The inquest into Sidney McIntyre-Starko’s death highlights critical challenges in overdose prevention and emergency response within university environments. The jury’s recommendations serve as a call to action for educational institutions and provincial authorities to enhance training, communication, and resource availability amid an escalating public health crisis.
The inquest into Sidney McIntyre-Starko’s death highlights critical challenges in overdose prevention and emergency response within university environments. The jury’s recommendations serve as a call to action for educational institutions and provincial authorities to enhance training, communication, and resource availability amid an escalating public health crisis.
