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Santa Monica Today
By the People, for the People
Parents Protest Snapchat Outside Headquarters Over Fentanyl-Related Deaths
Lawsuits and advocacy groups allege Snapchat features enable drug dealers to target young users.
Published on Feb. 14, 2026
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A powerful demonstration outside Snap Inc.'s headquarters in Santa Monica this week underscored the growing outrage over the role social media platforms play in the fentanyl crisis. Parents, bearing the weight of unimaginable loss, publicly displayed the names of over 100 children who have died from alleged social media-related harms, specifically linking Snapchat's features to the accessibility of deadly fentanyl-laced pills.
Why it matters
The core of the accusations centers on Snapchat's design, with lawsuits and advocacy groups alleging that features such as disappearing messages, 'My Eyes Only' content visibility, and Snap Map contribute to a 'digital drug market' that allows drug dealers to connect with young users while hindering law enforcement efforts.
The details
Snapchat is currently facing 63 active lawsuits from families across the United States, and a landmark trial involving Instagram and YouTube recently concluded with TikTok and Snap settling for undisclosed sums to avoid litigation. This suggests a growing legal pressure on social media companies to address the safety concerns surrounding their platforms. The integration of artificial intelligence chatbots within apps like Snapchat is also raising new safety concerns, with the potential for these systems to exacerbate mental health crises or contribute to suicidal ideation.
- The demonstration took place this week outside Snap Inc.'s headquarters in Santa Monica.
- A landmark trial involving Instagram and YouTube recently concluded with TikTok and Snap settling for undisclosed sums to avoid litigation.
The players
Snap Inc.
The parent company of the social media platform Snapchat.
Heat Initiative
An advocacy group that alleges Snapchat's features contribute to a 'digital drug market'.
Michael Brewer
A 17-year-old survivor who suffered blindness and severe brain injury after consuming a fentanyl-laced pill purchased through Snapchat.
Amy Neville
A parent whose 14-year-old son Alexander died after obtaining drugs through Snapchat.
Evan Spiegel
The CEO of Snap Inc.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)
“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”
— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
