Teen, 17, who collapsed and died at dance music event as her dad warns revellers taking drugs can pay the “ultimate price”
Emily Lyon died after being rushed to hospital when she collapsed at a DJ competition at the O2 Arena
A 17-year-old girl who collapsed and died at a dance party at the O2 was a 'loving daughter' and 'caring sister', her family said today.
Emily Lyon, from Teddington, London, was pronounced dead at Queen Elizabeth Hospital after she was rushed from the O2 Arena on Friday night.
Paying tribute to his daughter, her father Steven Lyon has also spoken out after several teens suspecting of taking illegal drugs were hospitalised at the event.
Friends had alerted paramedics after Emily collapsed at the Red Bull Culture Clash DJ dance party.
A fundraising page set up by her friends has now raised more than £2,000, while her parents said they were struggling to come to terms with the loss of their beloved daughter.
Mr Lyon said: "We are absolutely devastated at what has happened and we're struggling to come to terms with it.
"Emily was a wonderful, vibrant young lady. She was a loving daughter and a caring sister, who was much adored by her vast circle of friends."
Met Police are treating the death as "unexplained" while they await the result of toxicology tests.
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However, a handful of young people at the event believed to be suffering from the effects of drugs were also taken to hospital.
Mr Lyon added: "It can be seen how these so called 'recreational substances' can result in such tragic consequences for so many people. Those who take them can pay the ultimate price."
Emily's mother, Carol Needham, 50, told : "Emily was a lovely, happy person. She had hundreds of friends. There have been hundreds of tributes to her. She was much-loved by everybody.”
Friends also paid tribute to Emily, who had represented Teddington School in Richmond at netball, cricket and rounders.
Charlie Turner wrote on her JustGiving page: 'I, along with so many others, share many amazing memories with Emily.
'There was rarely a time when she didn't have a smile on her face, or a time where she couldn't bring joy to others.
"Words are simply not enough to describe the pleasure and happiness she brought to those around her.
"Please, if you are able to, make a contribution by donating in memory of Emily. All donations received will be passed straight to Emily's family."