Police name 20-year-old who died in Raigmore
Police said tonight the man who died suddenly at Raigmore yesterday evening was Scott Ian McIntosh, 20, of Kenneth Street, Inverness.
Mr McIntosh had been taken to Raigmore Hospital for treatment from a flat in Mackintosh Road, Inverness. He later died at hospital with police saying his death could be drug related.
His family have issued a short statement through police, saying: "The family are devastated by the death of Scott and would ask at this time that our privacy is respected."
A report has been submitted to the Procurator Fiscal. Inquiries continue into the circumstances surrounding his death.
Health officials earlier today issued warnings to drug users about the dangers of illegal drugs as police continue enquiries into Mr McIntosh's sudden death.
Officers today carried out investigations at a flat in Raigmore estate.
A second man is also in a serious condition in Raigmore Hospital in connection with the incident.
Police think an ecstasy-type tablet, which is blue/green in colour and has the letters E=MC2 inscribed on it, sometime referred to as Einsteins, may be involved.
John Glenday, NHS Highland’s harm reduction co-ordinator, has issued a precuationary appeal to drug users to heed warnings about the dangers.
"Taking illicit drugs is extremely hazardous," Mr Glenday said. "We would urge drug users if they are unable to abstain from drugs to follow harm reduction advice to reduce the risk."
Precautions include:
* Watch for overheating - Ecstasy affects the body’s temperature control. Dancing for long periods in a hot atmosphere increases the chances of overheating and dehydration. Take regular breaks from the dance floor to cool down.
* Be careful about fluid intake. Reduce the risks by sipping fluids - don’t gulp - roughly a pint of water every hour. Don’t drink alcohol.
* Keep an eye on your friends – they might not realise they are in danger of overheating or becoming dehydrated.
"There is no way to make taking illicit drugs completely safe," Mr Glenday said. "NHS Highland works closely with the Highland Alcohol and Drug Partnership, Northern Constabulary, Highland Council and our other partners to tackle these issues.
"I would advise anyone who has concerns about drugs to contact the relevant organisations for advice and support."
Drug users can get more information and advice from the following:
Highland Drug Alcohol and Drug Partnership - (01463) 704603
Harm Reduction Services - (01463) 717594
Osprey House - (01463) 716888
Out of hours - 07749865217
A report has been submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.
