Montana Officials Urge Caution as Carfentanil Spreads

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - The Montana Department of Justice (MTDOJ) and Billings Police Department (BPD) are warning citizens of the increased presence of the synthetic opioid carfentanil in Yellowstone County. The Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force recently seized a large amount of dangerous drugs trafficked into Montana from out of state following a tip from a federal partner.  

“The State Crime Lab tested the drugs and found that a 5,300-pill seizure tested positive for carfentanil,” said Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen. “Carfentanil is a synthetic opioid, used to tranquilize elephants, and is approximately 100 times more potent than fentanyl and 10,000 times more potent than morphine.” 

Knudsen said these substances can come in several forms, including powder, blotter paper, tablets, patches, and spray. Some forms can be absorbed through the skin or accidentally inhaled. 

Get our free mobile app

“This bust is just the latest in the rise of carfentanil seizures in Montana,” said Knudsen. “Remember, these drugs are extremely dangerous, and one pill can kill. I appreciate law enforcement’s efforts and hard work to get these drugs off our streets and save the lives of Montanans.” 

So far in 2025, the State Crime Lab has analyzed nine different seizures that have tested positive for carfentanil. Of those nine, seven of the seizures were requested from an agency based in Yellowstone County. The Bozeman and Great Falls Police Departments requested that the other two seizures be tested for carfentanil. 

“Do not use any pill or prescription drug you have not been prescribed,” Knudsen said. “If you find pills or substances that you are unsure of, do not touch them without the appropriate personal protective equipment. If you believe you have ingested this drug or are suffering from an overdose, contact 9-1-1 immediately.” 

Some signs that may indicate an overdose: 

• Small constricted “pinpoint pupils” 
• Falling asleep or loss of consciousness 
• Slow, shallow breathing 
• Choking or gurgling sounds 
• Limp body 
• Pale, blue, or cold skin 

It is important to have naloxone available. Visit https://dphhs.mt.gov/amdd/naloxone/ 

“Avoid taking pills from the street, online, or that have not been prescribed to you by a doctor,” Knudsen said. “If you suspect an overdose, call 911 right away. The Good Samaritan Law protects you and the person overdosing from drug possession charges.” 

Community Resources: 

• Community Crisis Center (406) 259-8800 
• Rimrock Foundation (406) 248-3175 
• Warmline | Mental Health America of Montana– Call 1-877-688-3377 
• Montana Crisis Recovery line – Behavioral Health Alliance of Montana– Call 1-877-503-0833 
• https://stopoverdose.org/