Newcastle Uni issues drug warning following death of 18-year-old at Park View

Newcastle University last night issued a warning to students about the dangers of drug misuse following the death of an 18-year-old student at Park View student accommodation on Saturday morning.

The warning comes after Northumbria Police, who issued a warning of their own about substance abuse, announced that they suspect drugs to have been a factor in the deaths of two women, both aged 18, and a 21-year-old man in Newcastle over the weekend.

An 18-year-old woman had been pronounced dead at the scene after being found unresponsive at the student accommodation. Police arrested an 18-year-old man in connection with the incident, who is currently on police bail.

In an email, Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Chris Day told students: “I know how different the start of this term has been and that it is exciting to be back at University with your friends after the last six months. But your safety is in your hands.

“If you drink, then make sure you do so sensibly and that you look after each other. Remember, it is against the law to take and supply drugs and it is also extremely dangerous. Batches of drugs can vary in purity and strength and are potentially lethal, and mixing drugs with alcohol further increases this risk.”

The Newcastle Tab has approached the University for confirmation that the warning is linked to the 18-year-old’s death.

Northumbria Police also warned the public about the dangers of drugs, although they have not confirmed that the warning was made in relation to the death at Park View.

Assistant Chief Constable Neil Hutchison said: “First and foremost, our thoughts go out to the families and loved ones of those who have sadly died.

“Although our investigations are still at a very early stage and we continue to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths, we are warning people against taking drugs.

“We would urge anybody thinking about taking drugs to please not take the risk. The consequences could cost you your life.”

“If anyone has any information about who has supplied the drugs in question then we would also encourage them to contact us at the earliest opportunity.”

Following the death, a Newcastle University spokesperson said: “We are shocked and saddened to learn of the death of one of our students and our welfare teams are offering support to those affected.

“This is not Covid-related and as this is an active police investigation, we are unable to provide further comment at this time.”

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: “At 6.06am yesterday (Saturday) police received a report via the ambulance service of an unresponsive woman at an address on Richardson Road in Newcastle.

“Emergency services attended where sadly the woman – aged 18 – was pronounced dead at the scene.

“Enquiries into the circumstances around her death are ongoing. Her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by officers at this time. An 18-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident and is currently on police bail while the investigation continues.

“The investigation is at an early stage but this is not believed to be Covid-19 related death.”

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