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Dreamland Margate has confirmed it is working with emergency services following the death of a 21-year-old man who was taken ill during Saturday’s Drum and Bass Festival.
The popular one-day rave, which drew thousands to the seaside venue, was abruptly shut down at 5.40pm – hours ahead of its scheduled close – after the man suffered a medical emergency and was rushed to QEQM Hospital, where he later died.
Dreamland Responds
A spokesperson for Dreamland said:
“We are supporting the emergency services’ enquiries. Our thoughts are with the man’s friends and family at this difficult, sad time.”
Police Investigation Underway
Kent Police confirmed that while enquiries into the circumstances of the death continue, it is not being treated as suspicious.
“A report is being prepared for the coroner,” a police spokesperson said.
South East Coast Ambulance Service also confirmed attendance, stating a patient was taken to hospital in a very serious condition.
Festival Shut Down Amid Heat and Tragedy
Originally attributed to extreme heat, Dreamland issued a Facebook statement shortly after closing the event saying:
“Sorry guys, it was just too hot today, so we had to close early. Get home safely.”
Temperatures had reached 29°C earlier that afternoon.
Second Festival Tragedy in Two Years
This is the second fatal incident at a drum and bass event hosted at Dreamland in as many years. In June 2024, Emily Stokes, 17, died after an MDMA overdose at a previous festival. An inquest later criticised the lack of adequate on-site medical care.
In response, this year’s event implemented stricter entry checks, increased medical staffing, and banned under-18s.
Despite these precautions, emergency services and security were overwhelmed during Saturday’s event, with officers enforcing a dispersal order and managing crowds as attendees poured onto the streets.
What Happens Next
A post-mortem examination and coroner’s inquest are expected. Dreamland’s future event safety measures may come under further scrutiny.
Police continue to appeal for any witnesses or footage related to the incident.
