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Tributes to KFC overdose victim Ian Gibson

Ian Gibson, who was in his late 30s, was found unconscious at the premises at Yorkgate shortly after 2pm on Sunday
Ian Gibson, who was in his late 30s, was found unconscious at the premises at Yorkgate shortly after 2pm on Sunday Ian Gibson, who was in his late 30s, was found unconscious at the premises at Yorkgate shortly after 2pm on Sunday

THE death of a man who died from a suspected drugs overdose in the toilets of a Belfast fast food outlet has been described as "an absolute tragedy".

Ian Gibson, who was in his late 30s, was found unconscious at the KFC, close to Yorkgate, shortly after 2pm on Monday.

Police cordoned off the area for several hours and one officer was seen leaving the scene with an evidence bag containing a syringe.

It is understood Mr Gibson, who was known as 'Gibbo' to friends, was originally from Bangor, but had recently moved to the Shankill estate in west Belfast.

Mr Gibson had a partner and several young children.

Friends took to social media to pay tribute in the wake of the tragedy.

"Ian 'Gibbo' you weren't only a good friend but also a big brother to me... One in a million and a true gentleman, totally heartbroken. You will never be forgotten," one wrote.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the family. Rest in peace Gibbo, you were a good guy and would have done anything for anyone," said another.

SDLP councillor for the area Paul McCusker, said Monday’s death was an "absolute tragedy".

"The availability of drugs in north Belfast is a huge concern and this is the end result," he said.

"A man dead, a family devastated and a community in shock.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the man’s family at this incredibly difficult time."

The death comes just a month after the PSNI and Translink took steps to tackle drug dealing at the nearby Yorkgate Train Station.

Residents in the area had made complaints about heroin being sold in and around the station and in response Translink cut back shrubs and bushes in an attempt to prevent dealers using them to conceal drugs.

The PSNI also said at the time that would also step up patrols in the area.