Northern Ireland

Man (34) dies after taking drugs in Co Derry

Police are investigating the death of a 34-year-old man in Co Derry
Police are investigating the death of a 34-year-old man in Co Derry Police are investigating the death of a 34-year-old man in Co Derry

A 34-YEAR-OLD man has died and a 26-year-old man has been taken to hospital after taking drugs at a house party in Co Derry.

The man, from Moneymore, died late on Sunday. The 26-year-old remains seriously ill in hospital.

It is understood they fell ill after taking drugs at a house on Northland Road in the village.

Police said several other people may also have sought medical attention after they also took drugs. It is understood a further three people were taken to hospital for treatment.

Detective Chief Inspector Brian Foster said police are investigating the circumstances of the death.

"Our investigation is at an early stage but we believe that drugs may be a factor in both incidents," he said.

He added: "We are trying to establish the circumstances of what happened last night and I am appealing for anyone who was at the property on Northland Road in Moneymore or anyone who has any information about the incident to contact detectives based in Mid Ulster on 101".

"We would strongly advise anyone considering taking any kind of substance not to do so. Our advice is very simple: do not take illegal drugs; do not take prescription medication that has not been prescribed for you and do not mix either with alcohol. The consequences of ignoring this advice can be life-threatening.

"If you have taken drugs or other substances and are feeling unwell please seek medical attention immediately."

SDLP assembly member Patsy McGlone said he was stunned by the man's death.

"I want to convey my deepest sympathies to the man's extended family," he said.

"I would warn people to avoid drugs at all costs. Unfortunately we have seen a fatality and this can be one of the outcomes of taking drugs."