Authorities in Paris have reported a sharp rise in fatal overdoses in 2026, with 59 cases recorded so far, compared to 30 in 2025. Prosecutors have described the situation as an "explosion of overdoses," affecting individuals across all socio-professional categories and age groups. According to prosecutor Laure Beccuau, the phenomenon is "particularly alarming." As of September 28, 59 fatal overdoses had been recorded, a number expected to grow rapidly as toxicological analysis results are processed. The victims include individuals from a wide range of social and professional backgrounds and span a broad age range, with some victims as young as 16. The contexts in which the drugs were consumed are described as "very varied," including alone at home, in hotels, at friends' houses, at parties, and during "chemsex" parties, where narcotics are consumed by several people with the aim of having sexual relations. About a third of the victims are linked to "chemsex." Half of the fatal overdoses involve cocaine, often taken with other substances such as synthetic drugs, leading to "polyconsumption." Synthetic drugs, such as 3-MMC, 2-MMC, Alpha-PVP, or "Monkey Dust," are noted for their strong stimulating effects. The accessibility of drugs has increased due to the rapid development of call centers in recent years, allowing consumers to order narcotics without needing to visit a dealing point. This has led to increased competition among dealers, who use cultural references in their marketing. The purity of some cocaine has risen to 75% or 80%, compared to about 50% a decade ago. Authorities are investigating the entire drug distribution chain, aiming to trace networks back to call centers and prosecute those involved in aggravated involuntary homicide. Prevention efforts are also being emphasized, with warnings against the "normalization" of drug use and an "underestimation of the risks." Prosecutors have set up systematic referrals to support organizations for affected families.