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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
National
Jacob Jarvis

Danger warning issued over blue ecstasy pill called 'punisher' after teen's death on the Isle of Wight

A danger warning has been issued by police over a blue ecstasy pilled nicknamed "punisher".

This comes after the sudden death of 19-year-old Harley Girven, who was found dead by police at his flat in the Isle of Wight.

Detectives were treating the death of Mr Girven, who was a wheelchair user, as "unexplained", a spokesman said.

But he added: "As a consequence of the teenager's death, police are reminding people of the dangers of taking illegal drugs and in particular a blue triangular ecstasy/MDMA tablet known as 'punisher', which is known to be around three times stronger than other ecstasy tablets."

Mr Givern, also known as Harley Mason, was found at his home in Pomona Road, Shanklin, Isle of Wight, on Saturday.

The spokesman continued: "Two other people who were in the flat when police and ambulance staff arrived were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class A and B drugs.

"They are a 16-year-old girl from East Cowes and a 17-year-old boy from Newport. They have since been released under investigation. Their arrests are not directly connected with the death."

The spokesman that a Home Office post-mortem examination would be carried out on Wednesday to establish a cause of death.

Mr Girven's family paid tribute to him in a statement which said: "Our boy Harley; a fun and lovable son, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend to so many. We will remember you for your sharp sense of humour and unique take on the world, that sought to challenge you in so many ways, that others may never know.

"A courageous man with love in your heart, who will always be so much to so many. Now free of your pain, run free from your wheels, to your brother Mikey, who we all know will be waiting. You will be forever in our hearts."

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