Columbus officer released from hospital after being exposed to fentanyl
A Columbus police officer is home from the hospital after being exposed to possible fentanyl.
The exposure happened after Columbus police officers responded to a vehicle accident on Airport Thruway and Whitesville Road on Friday, May 5, 2023. During the investigation, officers noticed the driver appeared to be impaired.
While one of the officers transported the driver to the hospital, the other officer began to search and inventory the vehicle in preparation for it to be towed. The officer observed a container inside the car and opened it to inspect it.
“Almost immediately, the officer experienced symptoms of dizziness, dry mouth, elevated heart rate, hot, and heavy legs,” police said. “He called out on the radio for EMS.”
He was given a single dose of Narcan and transported to Piedmont Columbus Regional. He is expected to be treated and released.
The officer was wearing gloves when he came in contact with the substance.
The substance will be sent off for testing.
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