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Police examine possible drugs link in death of Co Armagh girl (15)

Caitlin Shortland (15) was found in woodland in the Corcrain area of Portadown on Saturday
Caitlin Shortland (15) was found in woodland in the Corcrain area of Portadown on Saturday Caitlin Shortland (15) was found in woodland in the Corcrain area of Portadown on Saturday

POLICE have confirmed they are examining a possible drugs link to the death of a 15-year-old girl in Co Armagh.

Caitlin Shortland was found in woodland in the Corcrain area of Portadown on Saturday.

The teenager was a pupil at Craigavon High School and there was an outpouring of grief from friends on social media last night.

PSNI area commander Joe McMinn said officers responded to reports that a girl was unconscious at around 6pm on Saturday.

“An ambulance was tasked and conveyed the girl to Craigavon Area Hospital where she died a short time later," the chief inspector said.

“At this early stage of the investigation, one of our lines of enquiry is a possible link to drugs.

“A post mortem examination will be carried out to determine the exact cause of death.

"There were a large number of young people in the Corcrain area when police arrived and we are appealing to anyone who was in that area yesterday and who has any information which could help us with our enquiries to contact police on 101 quoting reference 994 of 20/05/17."

Information can also be provided anonymously on the Crimestoppers number 0800 555 111.

Police searched an area about 30 metres off a gravel pathway leading through the woodland.

Several groups of young people gathered at the scene yesterday and many were visibly emotional as they laid flowers.

Hilary Woods, Craigavon High School's assistant principal, said it was a tragic loss for the family and school community.

"The school has implemented a plan which will give pupils the opportunity to talk through their thoughts and feelings with trained staff from the Education Authority critical incident response team," she told the BBC.

"A letter will be sent by the school to parents, informing them of this tragic incident and providing information on the support services available through the school."

Friends of the schoolgirl, known affectionately as 'Chucky', took to social media to express their shock.

"I can't believe I'm writing this you were an amazing person and an amazing friend, heaven has gained another angel. Love you loads Caitlin," one wrote.

Another said: "Rest in peace Caitlin Chucky Shortland. You will be missed so so much by so many people. You where taken far too soon chick. Thoughts and prayers go out to all your family."

Ulster Unionist councillor Julie Flaherty last night said more needs to be done to ensure the safety of young people.

"This is a wake up call for all of us and our young people, who are putting themselves in danger now with tragic results," she said.

"My heart goes out to the young girl's family."

The DUP's David Simpson said the community would pull together to comfort each other.

"To hear of a life ending in such circumstances is horrific for everyone but none more than family and friends. A young life cut down so early. The scene is one of tragedy and devastation," he said.

Sinn Féin's John O'Dowd also said the "entire community is in shock".

"I understand the PSNI are investigating the circumstances of the girls death and I would urge anyone with information to come forward," he said.