Drug deaths rise across Greater Lansing region, Ingham County hit hardest

Drug-related deaths rose sharply across the seven-county Greater Lansing region in the first three months of 2026, according to a report released Monday by University of Michigan-Sparrow pathologists. The region recorded 48 drug-related deaths in the quarter, up from 35 during the same period in 2025.

The report covers Clinton, Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Isabella, Livingston and Shiawassee counties. Ingham County, the region's most populous, recorded the most deaths at 20. All but one of those were ruled accidental overdoses; the remaining case was inconclusive. Some deaths in other counties were classified as suicides.

At the current pace, 2026 is on track to surpass 2025's regional total of 120 drug-related deaths, which climbed over the final three quarters of last year. Residents seeking help with substance use can call the Mid-State Health Network at 1-844-405-3095 or county mental health services at 800-372-8460.

Read the full story at Lansing City Pulse.