Teacher Emily Browning Died After Cocaine and Alcohol Binge on Night Out
A "kind and beautiful" young teacher tragically passed away after ingesting cocaine and consuming excessive alcohol during a night out with friends, as revealed during a recent inquest hearing. Emily Rose Browning, aged 24, was socialising in Cardiff in December 2024 when the fatal incident occurred.
Details of the Tragic Night
Emily Rose Browning had been enjoying an evening with friends at home before venturing into Cardiff city centre on December 7, 2024. According to Coroner Graeme Hughes, "During this time she has consumed alcohol and cocaine." He noted that she became intermittently unwell, prompting concerns from her friends about her welfare.
After returning home with her boyfriend, Jack Weston, Emily went to bed. Shortly thereafter, Jack discovered her collapsed on the bedroom floor, not breathing, and immediately dialled 999 for emergency assistance.
Inquest Findings and Cause of Death
The coroner recorded a conclusion of alcohol and drug-related death. Mr Hughes stated that Emily likely died due to the "intoxicating effects of alcohol and illicit drug use, leading to aspiration of vomit, cardiac arrest and a devastating hypoxic brain injury."
Specifically, the medical cause of death was identified as brain injury resulting from oxygen deprivation, with underlying causes including aspiration and acute alcohol and cocaine intoxication. Emily was transported to the University Hospital of Wales, where she succumbed to her injuries on December 10, 2024.
Tributes and Memorial Efforts
Emily, originally from Somerset, had settled in Cardiff after earning a criminology degree and a master's in psychology. She pursued a teaching career, most recently at Gladstone Primary School in Heath, Cardiff. The school expressed profound sadness, describing her as a beloved teacher whose kindness, passion, and dedication impacted every child, colleague, and parent.
In honour of her memory, the school plans to establish a memorial garden. This garden aims to reflect Emily's values of nurturing curiosity, creativity, and well-being in learners. It will serve as a space for reflection, joy, and growth, where children can engage in outdoor educational experiences.
Her boyfriend, Jack Weston, initiated a fundraiser to support the garden's creation. The campaign has successfully raised over £40,000, with numerous friends participating in events to contribute. The fundraiser highlighted Emily's vibrant spirit, noting, "She was a kind, caring, beautiful young lady who lived life to the full."
Emily's professional journey included teaching at various schools across South Wales, where she helped shape young minds. Her legacy continues through the memorial efforts and the lasting impressions she left on her community.
