James Matthews, a 23 year-old University of York student has collapsed and died in a Tang Hall home from a suspected drug overdose. Two men, aged 28 and 36 have been arrested in connection with his death on suspicion of supplying drugs.
Paramedics were called to a house on Seventh Avenue on Wednesday afternoon at around 1.25pm after been told Mr Matthews had collapsed, although attempts were made to resuscitate him, and he was taken to York Hospital, he was pronounced dead at 2.01pm.
James, whose family live in the Durham area, had spent time growing up in Kent, and was studying PPE at York. After taking a year out of his studies, was returning to the University in October to enter his third year.
The University released a statement saying, “We extend our sympathies to his family at this extremely distressing time. The university is offering support to his friends here.”
His supervisor, Professor Neil Carter, said: “James was a very likeable young man who made great efforts to get to university and was determined to succeed in his studies.”
Although the University initially claimed that James was a member of James College, he lived in Halifax College in his first year.
Since his death James’s Facebook page has been inundated with messages of condolence from friends, one spoke to Vision about the death, “I have known James since first year, and his death is a real tragedy. He was an extremely popular and unique student who had an infectious charm and charisma; he was a genuine, decent guy who overcame much to achieve what he wanted. I spoke to him a few weeks ago, and he was full of enthusiasm for his return to University, his absence will be badly felt by myself and many others.”
Tim Ngwena, YUSU President, also expressed his condolences: “James’ death will be felt by the student community and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”
“If you knew James and wish to talk to someone, contact your supervisor, or alternatively email the Open Door Team at [email protected] or pop in to see them on campus next to the careers service.”