Wolcott Couple Dies from Accidental Drug Overdoses
Tragic news struck the small town of Wolcott last month when a couple, Tammy and Lucas Menard, were found dead in a tent. The Vermont Department of Health released their death certificates, revealing that both individuals died from accidental drug overdoses. Tammy, 53, succumbed to a fentanyl overdose, while Lucas, 48, tragically passed away from a lethal mix of cocaine and fentanyl.
A Life Marred by Struggles
The Menards’ story is not just one of tragedy but also of hardship. Facing housing insecurity for years and battling serious health issues, the couple’s journey was fraught with challenges. Their plight came to a head in September when they were forced out of their temporary lodging after their 80-day housing voucher expired.
With nowhere else to turn, Tammy and Lucas sought refuge on family land in Wolcott, setting up camp in a tent. It was there, on the eve of Thanksgiving, that their lives were tragically cut short, discovered by the Lamoille County Sheriff’s Department.
Advocates Despite Adversity
Despite their own struggles, those who knew the Menards remember them as advocates for the unhoused community. Even amidst their housing insecurities and health battles, Tammy and Lucas remained committed to helping others in similar circumstances. Their untimely deaths have shed light on the harsh realities faced by many unhoused individuals, especially as winter began to grip the state.
A Community Mourns
Their passing was not just a personal loss but a community tragedy. On November 30, a candlelight vigil was held in Montpelier to honor the memory of Tammy and Lucas Menard. Friends, family, and supporters gathered to pay their respects and reflect on the lives of two individuals who, despite their own struggles, never stopped fighting for a better tomorrow.
