Law enforcement officials warned Tennesseans about fentanyl, the deadly drug that has ripped through many lives, homes and neighborhoods.
Officials said even touching the drug has caused deaths. According to Colonel Tracy Trott, Tennessee Highway Patrol, one first responder accidentally touched fentanyl. It took two doses of Narcan to bring him back to life.
Thursday afternoon, TBI officials sent a strong message to drug dealers.
"We're coming for you."
TBI officials said they will not stand by and let dealers take advantage of residents who struggle with addiction and further put their lives in jeopardy. Fentanyl is a potent, synthetic opioid pain medication and Georgia just learned how deadly the drug can be.
Nearly half a dozen people died last week from fentanyl overdoses, and dozens more were hospitalized.
It was the largest amount of overdoses Georgia experienced in state history.
Now state officials are taking more steps to keep first responders safe when coming into contact with this drug.
"We have taken steps to protect our first responders. We've stopped all testing of narcotics out in the field we are leaving that to the professionals in the TBI labs," said Colonel Trott.
The drug has already made its way to Tennessee. Officials are concerned we may experience the same problem Georgia is dealing with.
Any who needs help with addiction, or if you know someone with addiction you are urged to call 1-800-889-9789.
