In a shocking development, officials at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center in Medford, Oregon, have launched an investigation into the suspected theft of medication by a former employee. The incident involves allegations that the nurse swapped out powerful painkiller fentanyl with non-sterile tap water, potentially leading to the deaths of as many as 10 patients.

The hospital first alerted the police early last month, expressing concerns that medication had gone missing. Sources from the hospital, speaking to local NBC affiliate KOBI, suggest that nine patients may have died due to infections caused by the misuse of the hospital's supply of pain medication. However, there are conflicting reports, with other sources indicating that the total number of deaths could be as high as 10.

According to information obtained from the Rogue Valley Times, the alleged medicine replacement scheme had been affecting patients since at least fall of 2022.

Families of two patients, Samuel Allison, 36, who passed away in November 2022, and Barry Samsten, 74, who died in July, have claimed that hospital officials informed them about the infections resulting from their loved ones receiving pain medication replaced with non-sterile tap water.

Medford Police Lt. Geoff Kirkpatrick stated, "There was concern that this behavior resulted in adverse patient care, though the extent of the impact on those patients is yet to be determined." Kirkpatrick refrained from confirming whether the deaths were directly caused by the medication theft or tampering.

The police department has reached out to notify any patients who may have been affected by the alleged swap. However, they have not disclosed the exact number of deaths or individuals impacted.

"We were distressed to learn of this issue," the hospital stated in a response. "We reported it to law enforcement and are working closely with them."

The Oregon Health Authority has also begun its own investigation and confirmed on Wednesday that it is looking into reports of healthcare-associated infections that may have severely injured or caused the deaths of several patients.

As the investigation continues, it remains unclear if any arrests have been made in connection with the incident.

This alarming case has highlighted the importance of patient safety and has raised concerns about the security and handling of medications within healthcare facilities. The full extent of the impact on the affected patients and their families is yet to be determined as authorities work diligently to uncover the truth behind this disturbing incident.