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)

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

28 June 2016
Appeal Launched Following Hate Attacks In Armagh
Police in Co Armagh have launched an appeal following a spate of hate attacks. Graffiti was sprayed on two cars and the door of a house in the Orangefield area sometime between 6pm on Saturday, 25 June, and noon on sunday, 26 June. The graffiti included a swastika.
23 June 2016
Police Officers Disciplined For Failing To Tell Doctor About Woman's Head Injuries
Two police officers have been disciplined after they failed to let their colleagues and a police doctor know that a woman had sustained a head injury, a Police Ombudsman investigation has concluded. The woman died from bleeding to the brain on 24 February 2014, the day after she suffered the injury.
12 September 2013
No Public Inquiry Into Omagh Bombing
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Rt Hon Theresa Villiers MP, has decided not to instigate a public inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the Real IRA bombing in Omagh on 15 August 1998.
26 November 2015
Young Girl Approached In L'Derry
Police are appealing for information after a young girl was approached by men in a van in L'Derry. The incident happened in the Creggan area at around 4.15pm on Wednesday. The nine-year-old girl was walking in the Creggan area when a white van pulled up beside her. One of the three men asked her to get in, however the girl refused and ran home.
25 March 2013
Newton Condemns Attack On Teenage Girl
East Belfast DUP MLA Robin Newton has expressed his concerns following a serious assault on a teenage girl in a house in Templemore Avenue. Mr Newton said: "This attack on a teenage girl will create anger in the community. It is someone’s daughter who was alone and vulnerable that was seriously assaulted.