DATE: June 1, 2017
DISTRIBUTION: All First Responders
ANALYST: Ralph Little/904-256-5940
SUBJECT: Grey Death compound in Jacksonville & Florida
NARRATIVE: The compound opioid known as Grey Death has been detected for the first time in North Florida. Although Purchased in March in St. Augustine, the basic drugs were from Jacksonville and may have been purchased pre-mixed. Other samples have occurred from March through May. Delays are due to testing requirements. Grey Death has been detected in Florida since November 2016 in four counties south of NFHIDTA. Palm Beach reported a related death on May 19th. Grey Death has been reported in the Southeast, with overdoses and at least two deaths in Alabama and Georgia. It has also been found in Ohio, Pennsylvania and Indiana. The compound is a mixture of U-47700, heroin and fentanyl. Overall, different fentanyls, including carfentanil, have been detected and the amount of each ingredient varies. The substance’s appearance is similar to concrete mixing powder with a varied texture from fine powder to rock-like. While grey is most common and is the color seen in St. Augustine, pictures indicate tan as well. The potency is much higher than heroin and can be administered via injection, ingestion, insufflation and smoking.
DANGER: Grey Death ingredients and their concentrations are unknown to users, making it particularly lethal. Because these strong drugs can be absorbed through the skin, touching or the accidental inhalation of these drugs can result in absorption. Adverse effects, such as disorientation, sedation, coughing, respiratory distress or cardiac arrest can occur very rapidly, potentially within minutes of exposure. Any concoction containing U-47700 may not respond to Narcan, depending on its relative strength in the mix. Light grey powder in a test tube.
CONCLUSION: Responders are advised to employ protective gear to prevent skin absorption or inhalation. Miniscule (grains) of this substance are dangerous. Treat any particles in the vicinity of scene or potentially adhering to your or victim outer clothing or equipment as hazardous.
Source: HIDTA Intelligence brief. 1st June 2017