Rye Police Officer’s Narcan Save Comes Ahead of International Overdose Awareness Day

Written By: Robert Cox

RYE, NY (Aug. 31, 2026) — A City of Rye police officer revived an unresponsive young man with Narcan on Sunday, one day before International Overdose Awareness Day, the City of Rye Department of Public Safety announced.

Police Officer Duffy responded Sunday, Aug. 30, to a reported overdose and found a young man unresponsive, not breathing and not responding to stimuli. Recognizing the signs of a suspected opioid overdose, Duffy administered Narcan (naloxone), and the individual quickly regained consciousness and began breathing, according to the department.

The department said all City of Rye police officers are equipped with Narcan and trained to recognize and respond to suspected opioid overdoses. It commended Duffy for recognizing the signs of an overdose and taking immediate action, “which ultimately saved this young man’s life.”

International Overdose Awareness Day is recognized by communities around the world today, Aug. 31. This year’s theme, “25 Years On. Still Needed,” marks 25 years of bringing people together to remember those lost to overdose and take action to prevent future deaths, according to the department.

“Yesterday’s incident serves as a reminder that drug overdoses can affect individuals, families, and communities everywhere,” the department said. “Overdoses are preventable, and timely intervention can save lives.”

Anyone struggling with substance use, or concerned about a loved one, can contact the New York State OASAS HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or text HOPENY to 467369 for free and confidential support, information, and referrals, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

This article was prepared with the assistance of AI tools under the direction and editing of Robert Cox.

Have information about this story? Email robertcox@talkofthesound (preferred) or contact via WhatsApp: +353 089 972 0669

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