OZARK, Ala. (WDHN) — A fatal fentanyl overdose in Ozark has led to multiple arrests and a manslaughter charge as law enforcement intensifies efforts to combat the opioid crisis locally.
Investigators say a suspected overdose death earlier in the day on July 23 prompted the Ozark Police Department and Dale County Sheriff’s Office to launch a rapid investigation. Around 10 p.m., officers executed simultaneous narcotics search warrants at two neighboring homes in the 2100 block of Will Logan Road.
During the searches, evidence was recovered linking 58-year-old David Todd Tyler to the distribution of fentanyl believed to be connected to the overdose victim. Tyler was arrested at the scene and initially charged with:
• Possession of drug paraphernalia
• Possession of marijuana second degree
• Possession of a controlled substance
He was transported to the Dale County Jail, where he remains held without bond.
Three other individuals were also taken into custody after officers located illegal drugs and paraphernalia in the residences:
• Charles Taylor Burks, 42 — possession of drug paraphernalia
• Debbie Gail Thomley, 50 — possession of a controlled substance
• Jennifer Drexler, 45 — possession of a controlled substance and second-degree possession of marijuana]
Following an autopsy that confirmed the victim’s cause of death was fentanyl toxicity, Ozark investigators obtained a warrant on August 4 formally charging Tyler with manslaughter.
Fentanyl’s Deadly Impact
Authorities say the case underscores the seriousness of fentanyl distribution. The synthetic opioid — estimated to be up to 100 times stronger than morphine — continues to drive overdose deaths nationwide. Even tiny amounts, especially when hidden in counterfeit pills or other illegal substances, can be fatal.
Law enforcement officials emphasize that holding distributors accountable is a crucial part of preventing more deaths in the Wiregrass.
Narcan Saves Lives
In the fight against opioid-related fatalities, access to Narcan (naloxone) has proven critical. The fast-acting medication can quickly reverse an opioid overdose — including those caused by fentanyl — and has saved thousands of lives across the country. Health experts encourage anyone who may encounter individuals struggling with addiction to consider carrying Narcan and learning how to use it.
The Jefferson County Health Department offers free naloxone by mail after a short online training video. Medical professionals say the medication does not harm someone who is unresponsive for reasons unrelated to opioid use, making it a safe and essential tool in an emergency. Individuals should always contact medical professionals and 911 if an overdose is suspected.
Training and Request Link:
➡ Jefferson County Department of Health Naloxone Program
https://share.google/mplhUVQ2lUyM9qT0i
More Information:
➡ Naloxone Drug Facts — National Institute on Drug Abuse
https://share.google/SzWeZTwgiiGfOlltd
