BOSSES at The Assembly in Leamington have reiterated their zero tolerance policy to drugs following a teenager death after he was thought to have taken an MDMA pill.
The 19-year-old man became ill at the Spencer Street venue in the early hours of this morning. He was rushed to Warwick Hospital where he later died.
A 22-year-old woman is in serious condition in hospital after also being suspected of having taken MDNA, the active drug in ecstasy.
A number of others attending the drum and bass student event were also admitted to hospital after suffering adverse effects.
Police, who were called to the venue around 5am, stressed the drugs may not have been purchased in the venue.
A statement issued by The Assembly, said: “We are extremely saddened by the tragic incident which occurred last night and extend our deepest sympathy to the family and friends at this very sad time.
“We take the wellbeing of our customers extremely seriously, we continue to work closely with Warwickshire Police and reiterate our zero policy on drugs in our venue.”
Police have issued a warning about the ‘Red Bull’ pills.
Det Supt Pete Hill from Warwickshire Police said: “Our thoughts are with the family of the teenager, and specialist officers are currently supporting them.
“At this time we believe the tablet taken is a red hexagonal pill named ‘Red Bull’, which is believed to be MDMA, and we are concerned there may be others who have also taken this.
“Whilst the cause of death has not been confirmed and we are keeping an open mind as to whether the substance caused a bad reaction or an overdose, we would advise anyone who has also taken it to seek medical advice.
“We would also ask anyone who purchased any pills but have not yet taken them to please safely dispose of them.
“If others were at the same event last night and are aware their friends took this drug, please check in on them to ensure they are ok. If anyone requires urgent health advice, please contact your GP or call 111. In an emergency, please visit A&E or call 999.”
Anyone with information which could assist with the investigation is urged to call Warwickshire Police on 101 quoting incident 63 of 1 February 2020.
The Assembly is tonight scheduled to host a Bongo’s Bingo event, followed by a club night.
