NHS worker ‘took illegal drug’ before club death
AN NHS worker collapsed in a nightclub and died after taking an illegal drug, an inquest heard.
Olivia Spencer, 21, from Pentre, was described as having a “heart of gold” by her devastated family after her tragic death.
Paramedics were called to the Vaults nightspot in Cardiff after Olivia collapsed, but she could not be saved and died at the scene.
An inquest opening into her death was told on Friday that Olivia had taken an “illegal drug” before her death and tests were ongoing.
Coroner’s officer Catherine Burnell told the hearing: “On December 2, 2023, an emergency call was made to the ambulance service after 21-yearold Olivia collapsed at a nightclub on Bute Street in Cardiff. Police were also in attendance and received information that Olivia had consumed an illegal drug. Toxicology tests are ongoing.”
South Wales Coroner Patricia Morgan said the hearing would be adjourned for a full inquest due to the “unnatural” nature of her death.
She said: “I wish to express my deepest condolences to the family of Olivia Spencer at such a difficult time.”
In a tribute following her death, Olivia’s family said: “We as a family are absolutely devastated. Olivia was one of a kind with a heart of pure gold, she lit up every room she walked into with her funny, bubbly personality. She will be missed by all who knew her.”
Olivia’s friends and family members have since paid tribute to the “crazy” healthcare support worker of Pentre, Rhondda, and described her as “one of a kind.”
One friend wrote: “Our beautiful Liv, I’m so grateful to have shared the best memories with you, you truly was one of a kind.
“Hope you’re partying hard up there like we all know you love to do crazy girl, nothing will ever be the same without you here. I’m absolutely heartbroken.
“To think we will never be able to see your crazy dance moves or hear your nuts stories again absolutely kills me – the world is so cruel. I’ll always love and miss you, Olivia. Forever 21, our beautiful angel.”
Greg Dix, executive director of nursing at Cwm Taf Morgannwg UHB, added: “We are deeply saddened to hear about Olivia’s tragic death and extend our heartfelt condolences to her family at this immensely difficult time.
“Olivia was hugely valued by the team on Ward 14 at Royal Glamorgan Hospital, where she was loved by staff and patients alike, and we are supporting her close colleagues as they come to terms with her passing.
“We pay tribute to Olivia for her enthusiasm, her passion for her role and the impact she made in just a short time at our health board.”
Vaults, a club run from a former bank vault in Butetown, Cardiff, said it was “absolutely heartbroken” by Olivia’s death.
In a statement, the club said: “As a venue, we are absolutely heartbroken due to the events of Friday night.”
During the event, concerns were raised for an individual who was immediately taken to the onsite medic for medical assistance.
“South Wales Ambulance Service arrived within minutes to the aid of our medic, but tragically the individual passed away despite every effort from the medical staff.
“We would like to send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the individual and offer our continued support during this tragic time.
“Safety is our number one priority as a venue, and we will continue to implement our strict policies through our upcoming events.”
On its website, the venue also said: “Vaults operates a strict zero tolerance drugs policy. Searches will be in operation, and this is a condition of entry to the venue.”
South Wales Police previously said: “There are no suspicious circumstances, and a file is being prepared on behalf of HM Coroner.”
A full inquest will take place next year.