Nashville tackles rising drug overdoses with life-saving kits

By: Kelsey Gibbs

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Two years ago, Nashville experienced one of the deadliest years on record for drug overdose deaths, and the crisis continues to be a significant concern in the city.

Earlier this month, the Metro Public Health Department issued a SPIKE Alert after reports of overdoses surged for three consecutive days, highlighting the ongoing challenge.

However, there is hope, as one Metro Police sergeant and his unit are not solely focused on catching criminals but on saving lives.

Sergeant Mike Hotz, who has served the community for 15 years with the Metro Nashville Police Department, is at the forefront of this effort through the department’s Overdose Unit.

"In 2023, 746 people died in Nashville from drug overdoses," Hotz said. "But we saw that drop in 2024 to 513, which is a 31.4% reduction, which is significant."

Despite the progress, Hotz noted that overdose deaths are on the rise again in 2025.

Watch the full story on Nashville's News Channel 5