Petrol fumes killed west Belfast boy

Published Friday, 21 January 2011
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A west Belfast schoolboy who collapsed and died in Falls Park last year had inhaled from a petrol can, an inquest into his death has heard.

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Twelve-year-old Correy Wisdom was playing with friends in the park, as he did every day, when he inhaled the deadly fumes.

Two passers-by tried in vain to resuscitate the boy, but he was taken by ambulance to the Royal Victoria Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

The inquest revealed that a substance called toluene - a volatile solvent found in petrol, paint and adhesives.

When inhaled it upsets heart rhythm and, in the majority of cases, death can be very rapid.

Summing up the case, Coroner Suzanne Anderson said she was sure Correy did not realise the potential consequences of his actions. She added that she hoped other children would be aware of the dangers of solvent abuse.

Gary McMichael from drugs and alcohol charity Ascent told UTV: "Unfortunately, about 8% of school-age children will inhale solvents at some point.

"But there are opportunities out there - there are services funded by the Public Health Agency across Northern Ireland to support young people and to support family members where drug, alcohol and solvent abuse is concern."

© UTV News
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1 Comments
mark brown in belfast wrote (881 days ago):
wot saddness for this family, my heart goes out 2 them & i hope other kids heed this tragic warning
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