In brief
Synthetic drugs are intensifying the American drug crisis, with overdoses falling from a peak of 110,000 in 2022 to around 70,000 last year. Chicago’s South Side is a frontline community as authorities frantically curb cheaper, potent substances like tranq. The BBC’s Quentin Sommerville and camera journalist Darren Conway document local efforts and rising concerns.
Warning: This video contains descriptions of drug‑taking and distressing images
A new wave of synthetic drugs is sweeping across the United States, escalating fears of a worsening drug crisis.
Earlier this year, President Donald Trump pledged a crackdown on drug cartels, declaring many of them terrorist organisations.
Drug overdose deaths have fallen from a peak of about 110,000 in 2022 to roughly 70,000 last year, yet experts warn that the long‑standing crisis could accelerate.
Authorities increasingly worry about cheaper, more potent synthetic drugs—including an animal tranquiliser called tranq—that are flooding local markets.
BBC reporter Quentin Sommerville reports from the South Side of Chicago, where communities are battling the surge and demanding new public‑health responses.
Camera journalist: Darren Conway
