22/05/2017
Investigation Launched After Teen Dies Suddenly In Portadown
Police have launched an investigation following the sudden death of a 15-year-old girl.
Officers received reports that the teenager was unconscious in the Corcain area of Portadown on Saturday, 20 May.
She was taken to hospital, however she died a short time later.
Police confirmed a "possible link to drugs".
PSNI Area Commander, Chief Inspector Joe McMinn, 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," he added.
"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.
"If someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details, they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111."
Sinn Féin's John O'Dowd MLA said: "The entire community is in shock at this tragic news.
"I understand the PSNI are investigating the circumstances of the girl's death and I would urge anyone with information to come forward.
"My thoughts, sympathies and prayers and indeed those of the entire Portadown community are with family and friends of this young girl at this very sad time."
DUP MLA David Simpson said: "My prayers are very much with the young girl's family and friends. Utterly tragic. I know the community well and I know they will pull together and help where they can.
"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.
"I have been working with statutory agencies to bring about investment in this area to help transform it and to help with youth intervention.
"I have spoken with the PSNI and youth agencies to ensure we have support services for those who require immediate counselling and feel this great loss."
(CD/JP)
Officers received reports that the teenager was unconscious in the Corcain area of Portadown on Saturday, 20 May.
She was taken to hospital, however she died a short time later.
Police confirmed a "possible link to drugs".
PSNI Area Commander, Chief Inspector Joe McMinn, 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," he added.
"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.
"If someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details, they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111."
Sinn Féin's John O'Dowd MLA said: "The entire community is in shock at this tragic news.
"I understand the PSNI are investigating the circumstances of the girl's death and I would urge anyone with information to come forward.
"My thoughts, sympathies and prayers and indeed those of the entire Portadown community are with family and friends of this young girl at this very sad time."
DUP MLA David Simpson said: "My prayers are very much with the young girl's family and friends. Utterly tragic. I know the community well and I know they will pull together and help where they can.
"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.
"I have been working with statutory agencies to bring about investment in this area to help transform it and to help with youth intervention.
"I have spoken with the PSNI and youth agencies to ensure we have support services for those who require immediate counselling and feel this great loss."
(CD/JP)
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