Dad Of Tragic Teenager Warns Of Dangers Of Drug Use

The dad of a teenage girl who is believed to have died from an ecstasy overdose has warned against the dangers of taking drugs.

Emily Lyon, 17, collapsed during the Red Bull Culture Clash DJ at the o2 on Friday night.

Paramedics took her to Queen Elizabeth hospital, Greenwich, where she was pronounced dead early on Saturday morning.

A 17-year-old boy has since been arrested on suspicion of possessing MDMA - a form of ecstasy - with intent to supply.

A 16-year-old boy was also taken to hospital from the event, believed to be suffering the effects of drug use. Four others were also taken to hospital as a precautionary measure, but all have now been discharged.

Emily’s dad, Steve Lyon, said: “We are absolutely devastated at what has happened and we’re struggling to come to terms with it.

“Emily was a wonderful, vibrant young lady. She was a loving daughter and a caring sister, who was much adored by her vast circle of friends.

“It can be seen how these so called ‘recreational substances’ can result in such tragic consequences for so many people. Those who take them can pay the ultimate price.”

A post-mortem was inconclusive, and police are currently treating Emily’s death as unexplained as they wait for the results of toxicology tests.

Emily, from Teddington, was studying for A-levels at Esher College, south west London.

A friend said of the teenager: “There was rarely a time when she didn’t have a smile on her face, or a time where she couldn’t bring joy to others.’

Image: SWNS