COLUMBUS, Ind. — Deaths in Bartholomew County climbed to what local officials believe are their highest levels in history over the past two years, largely fueled by COVID-19 and a steep rise in drug overdoses.
In 2021, there were 1,005 deaths in the county, up slightly from 1,001 in 2020, according to figures from the Bartholomew County Health Department. By comparison, yearly deaths ranged from 810 to 867 from 2013 to 2019.
“I don’t think the numbers have ever been this high,” said Beth Lewis, registrar at the Bartholomew County Health Department. “The COVID-19 pandemic was a major factor for deaths, as well as drug overdoses.”
COVID-19 accounted for 13% of all deaths — roughly 1 in 8 deaths — in 2020, according to the Indiana Department of Health, which compiles deaths by the county of residence of the person who died.
The Bartholomew County Health Department records all deaths that occur within the geographical boundaries of the county regardless of where the person lived.
At the same time, a record 64 people in Bartholomew County died from drug overdoses in 2020 and 2021, setting records both years and roughly the equivalent of one death every 11.5 days.
The impact was particularly pronounced on the younger population, with overdoses accounting for 56% of all deaths among people ages 19 to 35 — including all but one death in the 19-to-23 age group and half of all deaths in the 24-to-35 age group, according to local records.
Local officials say the increase in overdose deaths is being fueled by fentanyl and the pandemic, which officials said created a “terrible, perfect storm” of stress and isolation for those struggling with substance use disorder.
For the complete story, see Friday’s Republic.
