Student may have been killed by long-term use of nitrous oxide laughing gas

28 February 2024 , 08:50

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Ellen Mercer died in hospital the day after having a 'cardio respiratory collapse'

A student may have been killed by the long-term use of laughing gas, an inquest heard.

Ellen Mercer, 24, suffered a "sudden and unexpected cardio respiratory collapse" and was rushed to hospital, where she was declared dead. Medics found “features of neurological compromise” and tests discovered the party drug nitrous oxide — favoured by youths in lockdown — had caused serious circulation and breathing issues.

A post-mortem examination found an underlying cause of “long-term complications” related to use of the gas. At opening of Ellen's inquest on Tuesday, coroner Hannah Godfrey, said: “Ms Mercer had a history of nitrous oxide abuse.” A full inquest will be held later.

Tributes poured into the he business student, from Gerrard's Cross, Buckinghamshire, after her death on February 9 last year. Mum Sharon Cook, 54, said online: "I miss you so much my darling girl. Hope you’re being well looked after by dad and grandma. I wasn’t ready for you to leave me."

Ellen, from Buckinghamshire, was described as her family's 'darling girl'

The Sun reports nitrous oxide — often inhaled through balloons — was not illegal at the time of the young woman's death. Since then, a law has passed and so repeat users face up to two years behind bars and dealers can be jailed for up to 14 years.

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Speaking in November, Policing Minister Chris Philp said: "Today we are sending a clear signal to people, especially young people, that not only is abuse of nitrous oxide dangerous to their health, but it is also illegal and those caught possessing it will face consequences.

“For too long the use of this drug in public spaces has contributed to anti-social behaviour which is a blight on communities. We will not accept it. This law gives the police the powers they need to take a zero-tolerance approach to this crime."

Nitrous oxide is often nicknamed "hippy crack". Speaking last year, John Hayward-Cripps, chief executive of Neighbourhood Watch, said: "For communities across the country, this change in the law will be a positive move towards tackling anti-social behaviour and making local communities a better and safer place to live. We encourage members of the public to report any illegal consumption of nitrous oxide or other drugs to their local police force.”

Bradley Jolly