Washoe County coroner: High school student deaths investigated as possibly drug related
The Washoe County Regional Medical Examiner’s Office is currently investigating the deaths of two Damonte Ranch High School students. While the cause of death has not been determined for either student, the Office says the deaths are being investigated as possibly drug-related.
The Medical Examiners Office has identified Daniel Davis, 17, and Jacob Eckart, 18, both of Reno. Both were seniors. According to a news release from the medical examiner's office, Daniel Davis died Jan. 29 shortly after being transported to Renown Regional Medical Center. Jacob Eckart was found deceased at his residence on Feb. 3.
"The cause of death has not been determined for either student but the deaths are being investigated as possibly drug-related," the Medical Examiner's Office news release states, adding the office is working with local law enforcement and the Drug Enforcement Agency to further investigate the deaths.
The release further states:
"The Medical Examiner’s Office strongly encourages parents, teachers, and other trusted adults to have frank discussions with youths regarding the dangers of narcotic drugs, including those from sources the students may consider trustworthy, such as friends or relatives. White powders may contain fentanyl and other synthetic opioids which can cause rapid death due to their extreme potency. Diverted prescription pills also are not safe to abuse, and can result in death."