Police confirmed ‘needle stick’ at Astroworld festival, noted ‘attendees fell’ amid chaos

HOUSTON – The Houston Police Chief said authorities are investigating reports of potential drug addicts at a music festival where eight people were killed and hundreds more injured.

Chief Troy Finner acknowledged that rumors are spreading on social media of people taking drugs at the festival through “spikes.”

Finner said a security guard told police he felt a prick in the neck during the chaos at the Travis Scott concert and lost consciousness while being examined by first responders. He was revived by the opioid antidote Narcan.

“The medical staff noticed a pinprick that was similar to a pinprick you would get if someone tried to inject,” Finner said.

Finner said his department noticed attendees “dropping off” during the 9:30 pm concert and immediately notified concert organizers. The event was canceled 40 minutes later after discussions that included the fire department and officials with NRG Park.

This is some of what is known about needle spikes.

What is a needle stick?

It’s like spike someone’s drink, but instead, drugs are administered with a needle.

What drugs?

There have been reports of the use of “roofies” (rohypnol), the anesthetic ketamine, or the opioid fentanyl.

Where has this been reported?

According to reporting in The New York times there have been a significant number of suspected needle stick cases in the last year, many of which involve college-aged women in England. (including 12 cases in Nottinghamshire alone, according to The Independent), Ireland and Scotland. NBC News has reported that the UK Council of National Police Chiefs had seen 56 confirmed cases as of 23 October.

It has become such a hot topic in some parts of Europe that a week-long boycott of nightclubs called “Girls night out” has taken place and a petition campaign calling for stricter security measures in nightclubs has garnered enough interest to raise the issue debate in parliament.

Needle spikes are a newer problem in the US.

How do I know if I have been stuck with a needle?

According to HelloMagazine.com, the symptoms may mimic those of normal alcohol poisoning, but be completely out of line with the amount that has been consumed. In addition, signs include needle marks or bruises near an injection site, as well as sedation, amnesia, profuse sweating, an upset stomach, shortness of breath, blurred vision, hallucinations, and paranoia.

What are the dangers?

In addition to sexual assault, there has been the ghost of dirty needles that carry dangers such as hepatitis.

If I suspect that I have been stuck with a needle, what should I do?

If you are visiting nightclubs, general admission concerts, or other events and places where people tend to be crowded, travel with friends who can get you out of the fray and to safety.

Get out of any crowded area and stay in the company of people you know and trust. In case of worrisome symptoms, seek medical attention. You can also contact the police.