17-year-old girl dies of ecstasy overdose at UK festival, 21 more hospitalised

Emily Stokes, a 17-year-old girl, died of a suspected ecstasy overdose and 21 other teenagers were taken to hospital with drug-related symptoms after the festival in Margate, Kent, England.

In accordance with Daily mailAuthorities reported a serious incident on June 29 after a Worried About Henry concert at Dreamland amusement park. Several 18-year-olds were taken to hospital, the youngest of whom was 15.

“The events of June 29, 2024 were tragic, and I hope they will never be repeated,” the authorities said.

Kent Police explain that the event began at 1pm and that by midday officers realised three people had been taken to hospital on suspicion of drug overdoses.

At 5pm, a man was found with illegal drugs and arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to offer. At 6pm, an ambulance was called by a 17-year-old girl who was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at hospital.

The dead young woman’s sister, Megan Stokes, says via a crowdfunding account that she was “the kindest person you will ever meet” and “full of life.”

Dreamland Theme Park is currently under licensing review at the request of Kent Police.

According to the same source, the temporary measures include the official cancellation of all drum and bass events and events considered to pose a high risk of drug use by minors under 18, as well as increased security measures and obligations for minors under 18 accompanied by an adult over 25.

However, Dreamland also cancelled a similar event scheduled for July 27 and mourned the death of the 17-year-old. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of the young woman and we will continue to work closely with Kent Police where necessary,” they said.

The authorities are conducting an investigation.