Woman dies of suspected heroin overdose in Billingshurst

Police were called to the Bridgewater Close flat by ambulance personnel at about 12.30am, where paramedics were treating the 33-year-old.

She was pronounced dead at 1.30am,

A 21-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of a Class A drug, Sussex Police said.

He was treated at East Surrey Hospital before being taken into custody pending interview.

The incident is believed to be the third drug-related death in West Sussex in the last three days, following deaths in Worthing and Goring-by-Sea.

Detective inspector Dave Wardley Wilkins, of the Sussex Police priority crime team, said: “This is one of three deaths in West Sussex in as many days, all of which are believed to have involved drugs.

“There is no reason to link them at this stage, but it is clearly something we are mindful of as we await the results of post mortem examinations and forensic tests in each case.

“Drugs can have a devastating effect on the lives of individual drug users, their families and the wider community. Any drugs-related death means a personal and tragic loss of life for that person’s loved ones and this should never be forgotten.”

Police are appealing for witnesses. Anyone who has any information on the supply or selling of illegal drugs is urged to phone Sussex Police on 101 or email [email protected] to pass on details.

Alternatively, you can speak to any police officer or local Police Community Support Officer, or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.