Hampshire student dies following '˜serious head injury' outside nightclub

A HAMPSHIRE university student has died following an incident at a nightclub.
Police investigators at the scene outside the Missoula nightclub in Durham where a 20-year-old student died on Wednesday night. Picture: Owen Humphreys/PA WirePolice investigators at the scene outside the Missoula nightclub in Durham where a 20-year-old student died on Wednesday night. Picture: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire
Police investigators at the scene outside the Missoula nightclub in Durham where a 20-year-old student died on Wednesday night. Picture: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire

Police are currently investigating the death of a 20-year-old student.

Olivia Burt, who was in her first year at Durham University was from Hampshire, suffered a serious head injury near the entrance to Missoula just before midnight on Wednesday, as people queued to get in the popular venue.

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In a statement, Durham Constabulary said: ‘The 20-year-old Durham University student died in the vicinity of Missoula nightclub in Durham following an incident at about 11.55pm last night (February 7).

Olivia Burt. Picture: Paul Wyeth/RYA/PA WireOlivia Burt. Picture: Paul Wyeth/RYA/PA Wire
Olivia Burt. Picture: Paul Wyeth/RYA/PA Wire

‘The circumstances surrounding her death are unclear at this time.’

The North East Ambulance Service said the student had suffered a serious head injury and she died at the scene.

Owen Adams, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Colleges and Student Experience, Durham University, said: ‘We are extremely shocked and saddened by the death of a Durham University student in Durham City last night.

‘We are offering support to students and staff.

Olivia Burt. Picture: Paul Wyeth/RYA/PA WireOlivia Burt. Picture: Paul Wyeth/RYA/PA Wire
Olivia Burt. Picture: Paul Wyeth/RYA/PA Wire
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‘Our thoughts are with the student’s family and friends at this very difficult time.

‘We are unable to comment further on what is an ongoing police investigation.’

A spokesperson for Missoula said: ‘A full investigation has been launched, working with the police and the company who provide our door staff, to fully understand what led to this terrible accident.

‘Until that is concluded we are unable to comment further.

‘Our thoughts are with the young lady’s family and friends.’

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First aiders tried to save her life and attempted CPR but she died at the scene.

She had only joined Durham University in October and was studying Natural Sciences.

Detective Superintendent Kevin Weir, from Durham Constabulary, said: ‘This was a tragic incident and our thoughts are with the family and friends of Olivia during this incredibly sad time.

‘A joint investigation is ongoing between ourselves and Durham County Council to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.’

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Responding to the death of Ms Burt, Professor David Held, master of University College, Durham, said:

‘The staff and students of University College, Durham acutely feel the loss of Olivia Burt.

‘Olivia arrived in Durham last autumn to begin reading Natural Sciences. She came to Durham with glowing references from her school where she was regarded in the highest possible terms.

‘She had an outstanding academic record and was an exceptional sports woman. She was part of the British Sailing team in the European Championships.

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‘Olivia sailed for more than a decade, quickly finding her place in the university team. She became very active both in college life and the wider university.

‘Those students close to her have lost a wonderful friend, whom in their shock they grieve for, alongside her family and friends.

‘The college has lost a bright and outstandingly able student. It is hard to come to terms with her loss, and we will miss her greatly.’

Chris Atherton, senior high performance manager at the Royal Yachting Association, said: ‘The RYA is deeply saddened to learn of this tragic incident.

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‘As a popular and committed Junior Optimist squad sailor, Olivia Burt exhibited all the drive, determination and good sportsmanship required to progress as a successful Laser competitor.

‘Olivia’s passion for sailing always shone through and all those who knew her in the sailing community will miss her tremendously; she was both a likeable and fair competitor.

‘Our thoughts and sympathies are with the family and friends of Olivia at this sad time.’