Teen Tragedy at Dreamland Festival: 17-Year-Old Dies After Suspected MDMA Overdose
A 17-year-old girl, Emily Stokes, has tragically died following a suspected MDMA overdose at a drum and bass festival held at Dreamland amusement park in Margate, Kent. Alongside Emily, 21 other teenagers were hospitalised with drug-related symptoms after the event.
Major Incident Declared After Multiple Overdoses
The festival, Worried About Henry, took place on June 29 and drew thousands, including many under-18s. Kent Police declared a major incident after several young attendees, the youngest just 15, were rushed to hospital with suspected drug overdoses. The event, aimed at over-16s, had sold 6,300 tickets in advance with 700 more at the door.
Heartbreaking Loss and Family Tribute
Emily was among those hospitalised but later pronounced dead. Police believe an MDMA overdose caused her death. Her sister, Megan Stokes, paid tribute, calling Emily the “kindest person you could ever meet” and “so full of life” in a crowdfunding appeal to honour her memory.
Police Crackdown and Licensing Review Underway
- Kent Police arrested a man on suspicion of possession with intent to supply illegal drugs at around 5pm during the event.
- Police confirmed 11 under-18s were hospitalised by 7pm, with one still in a medically induced coma.
- Dreamland faces a licensing review with immediate steps announced, including cancelling future drum and bass events and enforcing stricter age controls.
- New measures include increased security, zero-tolerance drug signage, and requiring under-18s to be accompanied by a 25+ adult.
Dreamland and Police Respond to Crisis
A spokesperson for Dreamland said: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the young woman’s family and friends. We are fully cooperating with Kent Police as they investigate this tragedy.”
The police say allowing the event to continue was a tough call but necessary to identify and assist any more casualties. The ongoing licensing review aims to prevent repeat tragedies and uphold public safety at future events.
