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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
World
Sami Quadri

Teenager who died at Leeds Festival ‘lived every day at 110%’, says his devastated family

David Celino died suddenly at Leeds Festival

(Picture: Family handout)

The family of a 16-year-old believed to have died after taking an ecstasy tablet at Leeds Festival have paid tribute to their “beautiful” boy who was taken from them in the “most unfair” way.

David Celino, from Worsley, Salford, fell ill on Saturday at the event and was taken to hospital, but died yesterday.

Police believe he may have taken a “grey or black” MDMA tablet prior to his death.

In a heartfelt tribute, his family said they have been left “broken” after their son was taken from them in the “most unfair, cruel and horrible way.”

His family said: “Our David was a beautiful, fiercely independent and warm character who lived every day at 110% and who loved to spend time enjoying music with his friends.

“He had just received fabulous GCSE results, got into college, and had hoped to study computer science at a top university.

“Leeds Festival was the highlight of his summer; ultimately it was to take his life in the most unfair, cruel and horrible way, and we are broken.”

Assistant Chief Constable Catherine Hankinson of West Yorkshire Police said: “Our thoughts are with the family of the boy who has died, and we have officers supporting them at this very difficult time.

“While the exact cause of his death is yet to be established, one line of enquiry is that he had taken a particular type of ecstasy (MDMA) tablet, which was described as a grey or black oblong shape.

“At this moment in time this is believed to be an isolated incident as we have not received any similar reports.

“Users of any drug which is not professionally prescribed can never be sure of their contents and the risks involved with taking the substance.

“Anyone who does feel ill after taking any substance should seek urgent medical attention."

“We are continuing to conduct enquiries on site and are liaising closely with the event organisers.”

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