The Killer Sip: See the University Student Who Died After Drinking Too Much Alcohol During Initiation (Photos)

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The Killer Sip: See the University Student Who Died After Drinking Too Much Alcohol During Initiation (Photos)

Ed Farmer, a 20-year-old Newcastle University student has died after drinking too much alcohol’ at the one of the University's society initiation.

The young man who was in his first year, had been taking part in an initiation for the Agriculture Society when he stopped breathing.

The economics student was rushed to hospital but passed away the next day with his parents, Jeremy and Helen, at his bedside, according to the Mail Online.

The investigation into his death has been passed to the coroner by Northumbria Police and the university said it was taking a hard-line on activities that pose a ‘risk to the safety’ of students.

The 20-year-old’s death comes after that of Exeter student Gavin Britton, 18, who died after drinking the equivalent of three bottles of wine during an golf society initiation in 2006.

A student friend of Mr Farmer told the Mail: ‘Apparently it was part of a society initiation. He got really drunk and they … didn’t realise he had stopped breathing until it was too late.’


His father, 52, released a statement in which he quoted one his son’s close friends.

He said: ‘You have undoubtedly proved to each and every one of us that there is such a thing as “the guy who has it all” – the intelligence, the humour, the looks and the personality. Not many people can challenge a position like that. Thank you for all the memories.’

The statement added: ‘The family would like to thank all the staff at the hospital and university who have supported them throughout this time.’

The student, who was staying in halls in Castle Leazes but grew up in Leicestershire, was taken to hospital at 5.45am on Tuesday.

Professor John Wilson, director of Newcastle University Business School, said he showed great academic promise.

A university spokesman added: ‘We are deeply saddened by the news of the death of one of our students and our thoughts and sympathies are with the family at this very difficult and distressing time.

‘In close collaboration with our students’ union, we take a very hard line on all activities and behaviours that may constitute a risk to the safety of our students.

‘Both the university and the students’ union have strict codes of practice and policies on safety and responsible behaviour, and we take every opportunity to ensure that our students understand the importance of safety matters.’