Ecstasy Warning After Travis Barber Death

Police have issued a warning about ecstasy tablets following the death of teenager Travis Barber.

The 19-year-old was found dead at his home on Light Oaks Road in Salford at about 9.20pm on Sunday, February 17.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) originally launched a murder inquiry after he was found dead with multiple injuries.

But a post-mortem concluded that while the exact cause of death was still not clear, his injuries were consistent with accidental trauma.

Further toxicology tests will be carried out to establish the exact cause of death, but officers believe that ecstasy could have been a contributing factor. Enquiries are ongoing to trace the source of these tablets.

They have since found out he took an ecstasy tablet in the shape of a pink heart.

Chief Superintendent Kevin Mulligan said: "This was a tragic incident in which a young man has lost his life and we are continuing to support his family who are understandably devastated.

"Our enquiries have revealed that Travis was last seen alive on Friday, February 15, 2013, when he took an ecstasy tablet in the shape of a pink heart.

"At this stage we believe there is a possibility this could have been a factor leading to his death.

"We are very concerned about the use of these and similar drugs and the impact they can have on the user's health.

"We would strongly advise any people using or experimenting with such drugs who experience any adverse effects, to seek urgent medical assistance.

"I would urge people not to take illegal drugs as you do not know what is in them. They can contain poisons and illicit chemicals that can have potentially fatal effects.

"If you have any information about controlled drugs or these heart shaped ecstasy tablets, I would ask you to contact police as soon as possible. We will treat the details you supply with the strictest of confidence."

Travis's mother Louise paid tribute to her son after he was named.

She said: "Travis was a beautiful boy in every way. He was kind and considerate and loved his personal training and keeping fit.

"Travis loved music and playing the guitar and he was a wonderful son who was very much loved by his family, who are all devastated by his death."

It is not known if the batch of ecstasy GMP are investigating is the same as one they issued another warning about in January.

Two men died after buying drugs in the Wigan area. The drugs that led to the deaths of the men were said to be heart-shaped in purple, green, yellow and blue.

GMP said anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 6027 or 101.