Police probe overdose death at suspected E. Van drug lab

Police are investigating an overdose death at a suspected drug lab in East Vancouver.

Vancouver Police were called to an apartment on Rhodes Street near East 41st Avenue around 2 a.m. Saturday for a sudden death due to what appeared to be a drug overdose.

First responders who arrived at the scene spotted signs of what appeared to be a drug lab inside the four-storey apartment.

A hazmat team was called in but found no danger to other residents inside the building.

The man was identified as a 35-year-old resident of the apartment; his death is not suspicious.

A search warrant has been issued for the property. On Sunday, hazmat crews remained at the site to search the apartment and collect evidence.

Some neighbours weren’t surprised to hear a drug lab may have been operating in the building. They say they often see expensive cars circling around the block and making frequent, short visits to a third-floor unit in the building.

Raguil De Guzman, who owns a vape shop on the ground floor, said there have been break-ins to businesses and vehicles parked in the area, but this was the first time he’s heard of a suspected drug lab on the premises.

“Right now I’m a little bit worried,” he said. He was relieved to see authorities dismantle the lab and is confident it won’t be a longterm issue. “I know the police and the government can take care of it.”

No arrests have been made.