Detectives examine whether teenager's death in Portadown was drug related

By Adam Evans

Detectives in Portadown are looking into whether the "sudden death" of a 15-year-girl was linked to drugs.

She was found unconscious in woods in Corcraine yesterday and died at Craigavon Area Hospital.

Local PSNI Area Commander, Chief Inspector Joe McMinn said: "Police responded to the Corcrain area of Portadown yesterday (Saturday 20 May) at around 6pm, following reports that a teenage girl was unconscious. 

“An ambulance was tasked and conveyed the girl to Craigavon Area Hospital where she died a short time later.

“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.

"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.”

Local Councillor, Julie Flaherty said, "I am so saddened to hear that a young girl, only 15 with her whole life ahead of her, has lost her life last night. 

"As someone who lost a child myself, I know only too well the pain that this family will be facing. My thoughts and prayers are with them today. 

"The whole community will be devastated by this. They will be shocked that this could happen in an area they are trying so hard to care for and provide a safe environment for all to enjoy. 

"We all need to focus our minds on the young people of our Borough, this will be a shock for them too. Please be careful out there, look out for your friends. 

"I believe that the PSNI have opened an investigation so I urge anyone with any information to contact them on 101."