Jerry Martin, the Vancouverite who operated a mobile shop offering a "safe supply" of illicit substances, has passed away from an overdose.
The local advocate, who had been sober for around 15 years, told V.I.A. in previous interviews that he spent about eight years on the street in the Downtown Eastside and knew how dangerous life can be for people who use drugs.
In May, Martin opened his pop-up shop, named The Drugs Store, that sold a range of illicit substances including heroin, cocaine, MDMA, and methamphetamine that has been tested to ensure they are free from harmful cuts, such as fentanyl, as well as buffs and adulterants.
In addition to providing "clean" drugs, the store also provided people who use drugs with a safe way of purchasing them, as well information on detox and rehabilitation facilities and mental health resources.
Martin reportedly passed away on Friday (June 30) just days after being hospitalized for a suspected fentanyl overdose.
"We mourn the loss of a visionary who sought to address the complexities surrounding drug use and its devastating consequences," shares Marc Deveraux of Vancouver True Crime in an Instagram post.
"His untimely departure serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive nature of addiction and the urgent need for effective solutions," he adds.
With additional reporting by Elana Shepert.
