Page 14 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, SEpTEmbER 11, 2026 Police Chief Paul Strong talking at the podium. Mayor Robert Van Campen talking with Assistant Director of Youth Substance Use Prevention Eric Mazzeo and a community member. Assistant Director of Youth Substance Use Prevention Eric Mazzeo talking at the podium. Police Chief Paul Strong shaking a resident’s hand. INTERNATIONAL OVERDOSE AWARENESS DAY | FROM PAGE 13 You have community.” In recent years Everett has made significant progress in reducing overdoses and overdose deaths. The Everett Fire Department reported 130 overdoses in 2018, compared with 34 in 2025. Deadly overdoses have also declined, from 12 in 2021 to four in 2025. “I think we do a fantastic job as a community,” said Everett Fire Chief Joseph Hickey. “Fortunately, the overdose rate is on the decline. It’s a team effort, and we just keep doing what we’re doing.” While that progress is encouraging, the City recognizes that every life lost to overdose is one too many. Everett remains committed to working alongside first responders, community organizations, individuals in recovery and their families to prevent substance abuse, connect residents with resources and ensure that anyone struggling with addiction has a path toward recovery. The City of Everett thanks everyone who joined together for International Overdose Awareness Day to remember those who have been lost, support those still struggling and recognize the strength of those in recovery. Fire Chief Joseph Hickey talking at the podium.
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