Governor Moore Announces Maryland Overdose Deaths Falling for Fourth Straight Year, Reaching 10-Year Low

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore today announced the latest provisional data from Maryland's Overdose Data Dashboard, which show that drug overdose deaths decreased by 26 percent last year—marking the fourth consecutive year of reported decreases in the state. There were 1,315 overdose deaths in the state in 2025, representing the lowest level seen in the last 10 years and a 53 percent decrease from the state’s historic high of 2,800 in 2021.

“Maryland continues to show that our partnerships with local communities are invaluable in our efforts to reduce overdoses across the state,” said Governor Moore. “We have more work to do—but by working together, we will continue to fight for those seeking recovery.”

Decreases were seen broadly across all major drug categories and all demographic groups. The number of fentanyl-related overdose deaths decreased by 31 percent, falling from 1,314 in 2024 to 906 last year. Fatal overdoses also decreased by 31 percent among non-Hispanic Black Marylanders, falling from 812 in 2024 to 563; and by 22 percent among non-Hispanic whites, falling from 789 to 618.

“While we continue to lose too many of our loved ones, our progress to reduce overdoses and save lives is significant, and we owe a debt of gratitude to everyone who shows up every day to meet people where they are and make connections to substance use care,” said Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller. “This work starts at the ground level, with dedicated partners continuing their efforts to foster relationships and make connections to services that protect the health and well-being of those with substance use disorders.”