An open door at a home under construction in the Bremerton area turned a routine call into a major drug seizure over the weekend, according to investigators. Kitsap County deputies say they found a safe loaded with suspected fentanyl and ultimately seized roughly two pounds of the drug in total, including about 1.7 pounds in the safe itself. They also recovered a stolen handgun, ammunition and what appeared to be steroids. Two men were contacted at the scene. One was found slumped over the wheel of a car with 26 grams of fentanyl on him, and deputies report they also recovered “sensitive material” that had been taken from a law enforcement support agency.
What deputies say and how the search started
According to KIRO 7, which republished reporting from MyNorthwest, the whole thing started when a deputy responded Saturday night to an unsecured door at the unfinished home. During that check, the deputy found a man slumped in a vehicle and discovered he had about 26 grams of fentanyl in his possession. Deputies later located a second man who they say was linked to the safe that contained roughly 1.7 pounds of fentanyl. Investigators also say they found ammunition, magazines and what appeared to be steroids during the search.
Why this matters in Kitsap County
The discovery comes as local public health officials have been warning about a surge in deadly fentanyl use. The Kitsap Public Health District reports that overdose deaths have climbed in recent years and is pushing naloxone access, training and outreach, including efforts such as its Friends For Life campaign, in hopes of slowing the trend.
Possible legal consequences
KIRO's report did not indicate whether any charges had been filed, and the sheriff's office had not released booking details at the time of reporting. Under Washington law, the manufacture, delivery or possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance is illegal and can be charged as a felony, as outlined in RCW 69.50.401. The recovery of a stolen firearm, ammunition and allegedly stolen "sensitive material" could also open the door to additional weapons and theft charges if investigators decide to pursue them.
What residents should know
Officials say if you encounter suspected fentanyl or any unknown drugs, do not touch them and call 911. The Kitsap Public Health District recommends keeping naloxone on hand and offers free overdose response training and resources. For local help, information on naloxone options and treatment referrals, visit the Kitsap Public Health District.
