United States Drug Enforcement Administration

NEW ORLEANS – In a groundbreaking move to address the nation's escalating fentanyl crisis, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) hosted its first-ever One Pill Can Kill Game Over Tournament on Saturday, Jan. 27.  The esports event featured Louisiana teams, including Loyola University New Orleans and Northwestern State University of Louisiana, and garnered nearly 40,000 viewers. This innovative outreach effort aimed to educate a critical age group about the dangers of fentanyl and fake pills. 

With an overwhelming 97% of American youth aged 12-17 engaged in video gaming, DEA’s venture into esports represents a strategic move to connect with this often hard-to-reach group. The tournament, hosted by Loyola University New Orleans, featured competitive esports teams from the local area and demonstrated a unique and engaging way to connect with teens and young adults.

“DEA’s One Pill Can Kill campaign strives to educate Americans about the threat of fake pills and increase awareness about the dangers of fentanyl,” said DEA Associate Administrator and Guest Commentator Jon DeLena. “In 2024, you will see DEA in places you may not expect us with the One Pill Can Kill message. We are focused on saving lives and getting this important message to youth and young adults by reaching them through their interests and activities.”

“I am so honored to have been a part of an event that shares the passion of spreading this incredibly important message with the mission to meet young people where they’re at. I hope to continue to find unique ways like this to spread the word and save lives," added Ava Michelle Cota, actress, guest commentator, and co-founder of the Devon Michael Foundation.

DEA laboratory testing indicates seven out of 10 fentanyl pills seized by DEA contain a potentially lethal dose.  In 2023, DEA seized a record 77 million fentanyl pills and nearly 12,000 pounds of fentanyl powder.  This equates to almost 386 million deadly doses of fentanyl which is enough to kill every American. The need to spread critical awareness and educational information has never been more urgent.

“The esports event hosted by Loyola University marks a significant step in our efforts to reach young people with crucial information about the dangers of fentanyl and fake pills,” added Acting Special Agent in Charge Steve Hofer of the DEA New Orleans Division. “We are taking the battle against opioids into the digital world where this audience spends much of their time.”

Through a combination of esports, gaming influencers, announcers, color commentators, and targeted video content, DEA’s "One Pill Can Kill” message was conveyed to participants in a meaningful and powerful way.

DEA extends its gratitude to host Loyola University New Orleans, the participating teams, and the esports community for their support in making the first One Pill Can Kill Game Over Tournament a success. The New Orleans tournament was the first tournament of three in this pilot series. The next event will be held Feb. 24 and will feature college teams in Pennsylvania, further expanding the reach of this vital message to young adults. Tournament information will be updated at dea.gov/gameover.

Anyone with an innovative outreach idea intended to spread the One Pill Can Kill message is encouraged to email community.outreach@dea.gov or contact the local DEA division office and ask to speak to the community outreach specialist.