The opioid overdose antidote NARCAN saved the life of a Mitchell man. Mitchell Police say 40 year old Jamie Bowen apparently overdosed on heroin and was not breathing when first-responders arrived Wednesday afternoon. Ambulance staff quickly administered NARCAN to Bowen who was revived at the scene and later taken to Avera Queen of Peace Hospital where he was treated, released and subsequently arrested.
Another person present called 911 to report a medical emergency and stayed with Bowen until help arrived. Police found the female caller in possession of illegal drugs but she wasn’t arrested because she helped save Bowen’s life and cooperated with the investigation.
A state law passed in 2017 grants immunity to a person who contacts authorities in the event of an overdose and stays with the victim until help arrives. A similar law applies to underage drinkers who report medical emergencies.
(KORN)