By Cynthia Grau/WJEZ News

Grundy County has seen three deaths in the past 45 days that concern heroin, and the county’s coroner is doing what he can to be proactive about the situation.

According to a press release, Coroner John W. Callahan said there had been three heroin overdoses, but the actual cause of death is only confirmed after weeks of toxicology tests. Those tests, paired with the investigations, are then confirmed with the actual autopsy findings.

Callahan confirmed there is a heroin problem in that area and pinpoints its expense and accessibility as part of the reason of the increase in use.

He also said all reports at the conclusion of all investigations will be forwarded to the appropriate police agency and the Grundy County State’s Attorney.