13-year-old dies of apparent drug overdose in Arroyo Grande, police say

The Arroyo Grande Police Department and the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office are investigating a possible overdose after they found a 13-year-old child unresponsive Thursday.

The child was receiving CPR when officers and EMS arrived on the scene at around 7:00 a.m., according to a police department news release.

They attempted life-saving measures, but the child did not survive and was declared dead on the scene. The child attended Judkins Middle School in Pismo Beach.

“The passing of a student is tragic, and I want to be sure you are aware that support is available to your child or family if you are in need during this difficult time. Our school counselor and school psychologist are available for Judkins students,” Principal Ian Penton wrote in an email to parents.

Hospice SLO has services available for students affected by the tragedy and can be reached at 805-544-2266.

Arroyo Grande mayor Caren Russom said in a news release she and other leaders of the city are “heartbroken” by the death.

“Our city grieves for this child lost, for their loved ones, their friends, teachers, and the entire Lucia Mar Unified School District Family,” Russom said. “This tragic loss will raise many emotions, concerns and questions for our Arroyo Grande community, especially schools and students. We still have much to learn about the circumstances of this tragedy.”

She added that the opioid crisis is ongoing and urges anyone struggling with addiction to call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

The Arroyo Grande Police department is investigating the case with the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office, San Luis Obispo County Social Services and the Lucia Mar Unified School District.

The investigation is active and those with information can contact the police department at 805-473-5122.