Authorities in Grand Junction are warning residents about the extreme dangers of Carfentanil, a highly potent synthetic opioid that has been linked to a growing number of overdose deaths in Western Colorado.

The Grand Junction Police Department (GJPD), in partnership with national nonprofit Facing Fentanyl, is launching a community awareness campaign after four suspected Carfentanil-related overdose fatalities occurred in March alone, according to the Western Colorado Drug Task Force.

“Lethal in Micrograms” – Why Carfentanil Is So Dangerous

Originally developed to tranquilize large animals such as elephants, Carfentanil is not approved for human use. Yet the drug has surfaced in local street supplies, often mixed with or passed off as other narcotics, dramatically increasing the risk of fatal overdose.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has classified Carfentanil as 100 times more potent than fentanyl and 10,000 times more potent than morphine. Just a trace amount smaller than a grain of rice can be fatal if inhaled or ingested.

“This drug is deadly. It’s not meant for humans, and we are seeing the devastating consequences in our community,” said a GJPD spokesperson.

Facing a New Front in the Opioid Crisis

The emergence of Carfentanil represents a frightening evolution in Colorado’s ongoing battle with synthetic opioids. Law enforcement agencies warn that its extreme potency not only poses a threat to users but also to first responders and anyone who may unknowingly come into contact with contaminated substances.

In response, GJPD is urging the public to educate themselves on:

• Signs of overdose, including difficulty breathing, blue lips or nails, unresponsiveness, and gurgling noises

• Emergency response steps, such as administering naloxone (Narcan) and calling 911 immediately

• Precautions when handling unknown substances — especially powders or pills from unregulated sources

The DEA provides detailed resources on their website outlining what to do in the event of Carfentanil or fentanyl exposure.

A Call to Action from Law Enforcement

The GJPD says it will continue its partnership with Facing Fentanyl to distribute informational materials, promote community training sessions, and help increase local access to overdose reversal medications.

While much of the public conversation has focused on fentanyl, police emphasize that Carfentanil represents an even more immediate and silent threat — often present without users’ knowledge.

“Our goal is prevention,” said the department. “We want to stop overdoses before they happen, and that begins with awareness.”

As investigations into the four overdose deaths continue, GJPD is encouraging residents to report any suspicious drug activity and to seek help for themselves or loved ones struggling with substance use.