Three dead after suspected drug related incidents in Darlington

A third man has died after taking a suspected drug overdose in Darlington.

A man in his mid-30s was admitted to Darlington Memorial Hospital on Saturday afternoon for treatment in the Intensive Therapy Unit.

Sadly, he died during Sunday night.

Two other men, one in his late 40s and one in his late 20s, were found dead at their homes in the North Road area of the town on Saturday, prompting fears that a particularly dangerous batch of heroin may be in circulation.

However, police investigations have now established that all three died of overdoses and no longer believe that a “bad batch” was responsible for the deaths.

Two women have been arrested on suspicion of supplying Class A drugs in connection with the death of one of these males and further enquiries continue.

Detective Inspector Andy Crowe, of Durham Constabulary, said: “Clearly each of these deaths is a tragedy for the family and friends of those involved.

“Following our investigations over the weekend, we no longer believe these deaths are as a result of a ‘bad batch’ of heroin, but each case is a separate tragedy.

“We would urge anyone who is using drugs to contact the North East Council on Addictions (NECA) on 01325 267230 for help and advice”