Coroner: Teen’s sad death shows alcohol, suicide link

A coroner has warned about the risks of teenage drinking, after a ‘‘lively and loved’’ 16-year-old died by suicide at a 21st birthday celebration. Coroner Janet Anderson has released her findings into the death of south Auckland teen Enilose Mounga. She said Enilose was affected by alcohol at the time she died, and her actions were out of character. ‘‘Her sad death illustrates the dangers of adolescent drinking and the relationship between alcohol use and suicide.’’ On September 15, 2017, Enilose went to a party with family in Papakura. At some point, she broke up with her boyfriend and got upset as the night wore on. She left the garage about 3am and about an hour later was found dead. Enilose had no history of mental health issues, no known prior thoughts of suicide and no warning signs. The coroner said all parents should be alert to the risks of alcohol use in adolescence, including ‘‘impulsive behaviour, reduced selfcontrol and an increased risk of suicide’’.