Boy, 15, is found dead in alleyway after taking illegal drugs as police arrest six people

 A 15-year-old boy has died after taking illegal drugs, police have said.

An investigation has been launched after the teenager’s body was found in an alleyway in York.  

Six people between the ages of 14 and 37 had been arrested on suspicion of drugs supply offences, with two 14- year old boys being released. 

A 15 year old girl, a 16 year old boy, a 33 year old woman and a 37 year old man all remain in police custody.   

The teenager’s body was found  by a member of the public in an alley off Hospital Fields Road in York, just before 4am on Sunday morning. 

Police  say they believe  the boy was with a group of others who were also taking illegal drugs. 

A spokesman for North Yorkshire Police said: ‘An investigation is underway and specialist officers are conducting searches and inquiries across the city, in order to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

‘It is believed the boy was with a group of others who were also taking illegal drugs. ‘ 

Detective Chief Inspector Jim Glass, who is leading the investigation, said: ‘This is an extremely tragic incident which has resulted in a teenage boy losing his life.

‘A team of specially trained officers are supporting the family at this time and I ask that their privacy is respected.

‘We will do everything we can to find out how the drugs ended up in the hands of these teenagers.

‘If anyone knows someone who is dealing drugs, or is concerned about a person who is taking drugs, please come and speak to the police.

‘We are here to help and to keep you safe and any information you can give us might just save a life.’

Anyone with information is urged to call police on 101.