Teen dies after New Year's Day rave at Glasgow's SWG3 as Police Scotland probes drug link

A teenager has died after attending a rave at a popular nightclub in Glasgow on New Year’s Day.

An 18-year-old woman became unwell while at an event in SWG3 in the city’s west end.

A spokesperson for the club said medical staff had examined her after spotting she was in distress.

An ambulance was called after her condition deteriorated.

She was taken to Queen Elizabeth University Hospital but later died.

Police Scotland said it was notified about the death on Friday and has launched an investigation.

STV News understands one line of inquiry officers are looking into is potential drug use.

A spokesperson for SWG3 described the event as “tragic” and offered its condolence to the family of the young woman who lost her life.

They said: “This is a heartbreaking and devastating situation, and our thoughts are with them during this difficult time. Our team has been in direct contact with the family to offer support.

“Upon spotting that she was in distress, our staff swiftly intervened, bringing her to the venue’s medical unit for examination.

“The on-site medical team, composed of qualified and experienced professionals, promptly called for an ambulance as her condition deteriorated. Regrettably, despite these efforts, she did not survive.

“It is important to acknowledge the pervasive issue of drug use in today’s society, and we want to emphasise that we take significant measures to prevent the entry of such substances into our venue.”

SWG3 said every guest at its events is “thoroughly searched upon entry” and added that there are teams who conduct patrols throughout the venue.

The spokesperson continued: “Furthermore, our qualified medical teams are consistently present at all major events.

“As one of the largest and longest-established venues of its kind in the country, with over 2 million guests since our opening in 2011, SWG3 is recognised in the leisure industry for adhering to the highest standards of security and supervision.

“We have proactively decided to close the venue this weekend as a mark of respect and to enable us to regroup and reevaluate with our staff.

“Our commitment to the safety and well-being of our patrons remains unwavering, and we will continue to review and enhance our safety protocols to prevent such heartbreaking incidents in the future.”

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “We were made aware on Friday that a woman had become unwell at a premises on Eastvale Place, Glasgow on Tuesday, January 2.

“An 18-year-old was taken to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.

“Next of kin have been informed and enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances.”