Phencyclidine and Violent Deaths in St. Louis, Missouri: A Survey of Medical Examiners’ Cases From 1977 Through 1986

This study analyzed 104 deaths involving phencyclidine (PCP) from 1981 to 1986 in St. Louis, Missouri. 4 of the subjects died from fatal PCP intoication, 81 by homicide, 13 by suicide, 6 from accidental deaths. In 50% of the deaths, other drugs were also detected. A dramatic increase in PCP abuse from 1984 to 1986 was shown. The authors assert this increased abuse is associated with increased medical emergencies & violence. (VM)