Smile for Shellie
Friends of suspected teen ecstasy victim set up Facebook hashtag in tribute to tragic pal
DEVASTATED friends of a schoolgirl who died after falling ill at a house party have paid tribute to the teen by sharing touching pictures with the hashtag #smileforshellie.
Shellie Callaghan, 16, was rushed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary after possibly taking ecstasy at a house party in Newtongrange, Midlothian.
The popular teen died on Saturday, prompting police to issue a drug warning as part of their inquiry into her death.
Tributes have flooded in, with friends posting smiling pictures of themselves or of Shellie followed by the poignant hashtag.
Lewis Brannan wrote: “Rest In Peace Shellie!! Taken far too young, you’ll be missed #SmileForShellie.”
Courtney Cunnigham added: “Still hasn’t sunk in that my good friend isn’t here any more. RIP my wee angel. I love you! #smileforshellie.”
Shellie’s friends and loved ones gathered at Newtongrange Park last night to release lanterns in her memory.
Earlier, Tiffany Dobson wrote: “Still haven’t got over the fact you’re gone. All your loved ones will let a lantern off for you. We’re all totally lost without you now – we just want to say goodbye properly to our beloved friend.
“Swear you’ve took all the life of Midlothian with you – nothing feels the same any more, you were our sunshine.
“Hard to imagine that we can’t even see you again. Brings tears to my eyes … you had so much ahead of you. It’s sad, it’s not fair, to say the least.
“Fly high, Shellie Callaghanie, you’re never forgotten my angel. She may be out of sight but never out of mind.”
Shannon Halliday posted: “Shouldn’t take for someone to die for everyone to realise that drugs are ‘dodgy’ – they always have been and always will be.
“Probably the reason why they’re illegal?
“Such a shame. Rest easy, Shellie Callaghan #smileforshellie.”
Police have issued a drugs warning to others who may also have access to the pills.
Officers have advised anyone who has taken ecstasy-type tablets called Red Bugatti Veyron or Purple Ninja Turtle to seek urgent medical attention.
Chief Inspector Matt Paden said: “As inquiries continue into the full circumstances surrounding the tragic death of Shellie Callaghan, dedicated officers from the inquiry team are providing support to her family.
“Officers will also be continuing highvisibility patrols in the days ahead to provide support and advice to members of the public and the local community. “Anyone with information or concerns can speak to a local officer, call 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
Nothing feels the same any more, you were our sunshine TIFFANY DOBSON