A teenager who was arrested after a young rugby player died in a suspected ecstasy horror will not face trial.
Brandon Rice, 17, became unwell at a house party in Hamilton, Lanarkshire, before he was rushed to hospital but passed away. It was believed he had taken the class A drug at the gathering where three other teenagers were also given medical treatment.
Police arrested and charged a 17-year-old, who was not named, with drug offences but it has now emerged prosecutors will not pursue a criminal case against him over Brandon's death. A Crown Office investigation concluded no further action was required however it is believed there was insufficient evidence to link him to the tragedy of July 2019.
Officials have confirmed he was given an alternative to prosecution which can include a fiscal fine up to £500, compensation up to £5,000 or 50 hours of unpaid work. It has not been confirmed which of these direct measures he received.
Crown Office officials said the Rice family have been informed of the decision not to prosecute. Brandon had just finished fifth year at Hamilton Grammar School and was a player for Hamilton Rugby Club when he died.
Following his death dozens of tributes were paid to the tragic student mentor who had planned to join the fire brigade. His headteacher said he would be a 'great loss' to the community.
A Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) spokesman: "The procurator fiscal received a report in connection with the death of a 17-year-old male in East Kilbride on 17 July 2019.
"The investigation into the death was completed and after careful consideration of the facts and circumstances of the case, the procurator fiscal concluded that no further action was required. The family have been informed of this decision.
"The procurator fiscal received a report concerning a 17-year-old male in connection with an alleged incident on 16 July 2019. After full and careful consideration of all facts and circumstances, the case was dealt with by way of an alternative to prosecution."
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