Man charged with drug offences after 22-year-old dies after Halloween night out in Birmingham

Three people were taken to hospital in the early hours of October 26 after attending the Halloween-themed night at Forum on Dale End in Birmingham city centre. 

Police said in a statement that the men are believed to have taken drugs whilst inside the venue.

A 22-year-old man is said to have become unwell in the venue and sadly died in hospital later that day. 

Two 20-year-olds have since been discharged from hospital. 

A 20-year-old man was been arrested and charged with being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs. 

He appeared at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court earlier this week.

Forum has had its licence temporarily suspended whilst investigations continue. 

A spokesperson for the venue said in a statement: "Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the family and friends of a man who we were devastated to learn passed away in hospital on Saturday. He became unwell in the venue and was helped by our medical team before being taken to hospital by ambulance. We have all been deeply affected by this tragedy as we know have many in our wider community.

"We understand the council's decision to temporarily suspend the venue's premises licence while we complete this process and we are committed to putting in place any necessary additional measures."

A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: "We have been working with His Majesty’s Coroner in Birmingham and a post-mortem will be held in due course.

"The family has been informed and has been in contact with investigating officers. Our thoughts remain firmly with them at this difficult time.

"We took immediate steps to bring the matter to the attention of the local authority, based on our suspicion that the venue may have had an inadequate search regime in place.

"Yesterday, the council’s licensing sub-committee agreed that the licence should be suspended temporarily.

"As someone has been charged, we would appeal to people not to speculate about the circumstances as this may prejudice an ongoing investigation.

"We understand that people will be concerned and our thoughts remain with the family of the young man, and we will continue to work with licensed premises in the city and the wider business community to ensure the safety of everyone."

Anyone who has been affected or would like support can visit the Frank helpline for free, confidential advice, counselling and referral to specialist services 24 hours a day.

The Talk to Frank website also has a facility for finding organisations in your local area that can help.