(L.A.) Albert Vega, 38, Died at a Freeway Underpass

Case Number: 2024-13960

Los Angeles County is reporting the death of a 38-year-old Latino male that occurred at a freeway underpass.

The coroner’s office has identified the man as Albert Vega.

Manner of Death: Accident

Cause of Death: Combined Effects of Fentanyl and Methamphetamine

RIP ALBERT VEGA (June 13, 1986 – September 3, 2024)

Formal pronouncement of death was made on Tuesday at 8:00 p.m.

Ruling by the deputy medical examiner was published in mid-October, presumably after the results of tox screening had come back positive for the drugs.

There has been a dramatic increase in polysubstance use, where individuals mix opioids like fentanyl with stimulants such as methamphetamine. This trend has been described as part of the “fourth wave” of the opioid crisis in the U.S., characterized by a rise in overdose deaths involving both classes of drugs.

* The combination significantly raises the risk of fatal overdose due to the contrasting effects of these drugs. While methamphetamine may keep users awake and active, fentanyl can depress respiratory function. Once the stimulating effects wear off, users may be left with a high dose of fentanyl still active in their system, leading to respiratory failure.

* Many users may not be aware that their methamphetamine is laced with fentanyl, which can lead to unintentional overdoses when they consume what they believe to be a safer stimulant.

* Some individuals intentionally use both drugs to achieve a desired “high,” often referred to as “speedballing.” This practice is appealing because it combines the stimulating effects of methamphetamine with the euphoric effects of opioids like fentanyl.

* The rise in availability and lower cost of high-purity methamphetamine has made it more accessible, further contributing to its combination with fentanyl in various regions across the U.S..