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'HIPPY CRACK' SHOCK

Student, 24, may have been killed by long-term use of laughing gas

At the time of her death, hippy crack was not an illegal drug

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

Ellen Mercer, 24, died in hospital the day after having a “sudden and unexpected cardio respiratory collapse”.

Ellen Mercer may have been killed by long-term use of 'hippy crack'
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Ellen Mercer may have been killed by long-term use of 'hippy crack'Credit: Unknown
The student died in hospital the day after having a 'sudden, unexpected cardio respiratory collapse'
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The student died in hospital the day after having a 'sudden, unexpected cardio respiratory collapse'Credit: Unknown

She was taken there on February 9 last year after becoming seriously unwell.

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 the opening of Ellen’s inquest yesterday, Berkshire coroner Hannah Godfrey, said: “Ms Mercer had a history of nitrous oxide abuse.” A full inquest will be held later.

The business student, from Gerrards Cross, Bucks, was described by her family as a “truly beautiful and gentle soul” who was “missed by everyone lucky enough to have met her”.

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.”

At the time of Ellen’s death, nitrous oxide — often inhaled through balloons — was not illegal.

However, it was made a Class C substance last November.

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