Parents of Northumbria student who died after taking MDMA urge young people to avoid drugs

The parents of a Northumbria University student who died after taking MDMA for the first time in October 2020 have spoken out to warn others about the risks of drugs.

Nathan Pavlovic, aged 21, was in his third year studying forensic computing when he took the Class A drug for the first time, but died hours later.

As thousands of new students settle into university life, Nathan’s parents, Alex and Beth, have urged young people to consider the dangers before trying drugs.

Beth said:

“We can’t emphasise enough how much of a risk you are putting yourself at by taking these substances. We understand that young people often give in to peer pressure in certain situations and want to fit in by doing things they know they shouldn’t.

“But please trust your own judgement and think twice before taking illegal drugs. This was the first, and last, time that Nathan tried MDMA and he has lost his life because of it.”

She added:

“Nathan was destined for a bright future and he had so much to look forward to in his life. All of that has been taken away from him and us.”

Northumbria Police investigations revealed that the drugs were supplied by 35-year-old Kasam Ali of Croydon Road, Newcastle. He admitted possession of MDMA, cocaine, ketamine and cannabis with intent to supply. Ali was sentenced in July to three years and seven months in prison.

The MDMA had been purchased by 25-year-old George Harle of Shield Street, Newcastle, who shared it with Nathan. Harle pleaded guilty to supplying MDMA and received a suspended 12-month sentence along with 150 hours of unpaid work.

Nathan’s father, Alex, said:

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“There is a Nathan-shaped hole in our lives. My message to anyone thinking about taking drugs is that this could be you.”

Both parents described the ongoing pain of “not being able to hug him again.”

On the night he died, Nathan had been drinking with his friends at his student accommodation. Several people present also took the MDMA. One woman described feeling paranoid and being physically sick after taking some.

Both Nathan and Harle experienced hallucinations, but Nathan’s condition worsened. He was put to bed and, at around 4.30am, was heard shouting. A woman tried to cool him down and called for an ambulance, but Nathan died in hospital at 7.23am.

Toxicology results later confirmed he had consumed a large amount of MDMA, considered a potentially fatal dose for anyone.

Detective Sergeant David Wylam of Northumbria Police said:

“Taking illegal drugs brings with it the very real risk of life threatening or life changing consequences. No-one actually knows what the substance is they are taking. A choice to take these substances can leave a lasting and devastating impact.”

Featured image via Northumbria Police