Sophie Gradon: Love Island star hanged herself after drinking alcohol and taking cocaine
A coroner warns that the combination of drink and drugs makes people 16 times more likely to harm themselves.
Thursday 18 April 2019 18:17, UK
Love Island star Sophie Gradon hanged herself after drinking alcohol and taking cocaine, a coroner has found.
Gradon, who appeared in the second series of the reality show in 2016, was found dead at her home in Ponteland, Northumberland, by her boyfriend and his brother last June, an inquest heard.
There was no evidence of any third-party involvement in the 32-year-old's death, Coroner Eric Armstrong said.
Toxicology tests showed Gradon had a blood reading of 201mg per 100ml of blood - about three times the legal driving limit - in addition to cocaine.
Research in the US has found that combining drugs and alcohol can make someone 16 times more likely to take their own life, Mr Armstrong added.
"If Sophie's death is to serve any purpose at all, that message should go out far and wide," he said.
His conclusion reads: "Sophie Hannah Gradon, having consumed alcohol and cocaine, took her own life by hanging."
Gradon's boyfriend, Aaron Armstrong, confirmed her death on Facebook last June, saying he was "absolutely devastated".
The couple had recently returned from a holiday in southern France after celebrating Aaron's birthday.
"Having a magical time... first time in Antibes and I'm blown away by the beauty of the place," Gradon had written on Facebook.
Following her death, Love Island presenter Caroline Flack tweeted: "So very sad. Such a beautiful soul, such a beautiful smile."
:: Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org in the UK. In the US, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK.