Teen fighting for his life in hospital

Thursday 14 October 2021

A 13-year-old boy is receiving critical care in the UK after a “serious medical incident” at Le Guet caused by solvent abuse.

Following the incident on Saturday night (9 October), which saw Le Guet cordoned off on Sunday morning, Guernsey Police said it was brought to their attention that some young people have been gathering in large groups and abusing solvents, in this instance aerosols.

“This is extremely dangerous and can have very serious consequences, as this incident has highlighted,” said a police spokesperson.  

“A 13-year-old boy is currently critically ill and is receiving treatment at a hospital in the UK,” they confirmed.  

“We would urge parents to speak with their children about the dangers associated with this practice, and to please be aware of where your children are, who they are with and what they are doing as much as possible.” 

This incident at the weekend involved children between the ages of 11-15 years, who were out late at night. The area was cordoned off on Sunday morning with no further information given at the time.  

The gathering does not appear to have been a one off, and there are concerns that a similar life-threatening incidents may happen again. 

Guernsey Police said it will “continue to work with other organisations in the Bailiwick from the Youth Commission and other third sector groups to partners in HSC to tackle issues like this and to help keep our young people safe.” 

Anyone with immediate concerns can contact Guernsey Police on 01481 222222, or call Action for Children Guernsey on 01481 700218 for advice. 

Anyone with information information about what happened on Saturday night in the area of Fort Hommet and Le Guet is asked to contact the Public Protection Unit at Police Headquarters on 01481 222222 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.