Alfie John Head, an 18-year-old University of Lincoln student and budding lacrosse team goalkeeper was discovered unresponsive in his university dorm room on November 14, 2023. The coroner revealed the cause of his death on February 28, 2024.
Head, originating from Hertford, England, died from acute alcohol toxicity after consuming an entire bottle of vodka during a sports team social event in Lincolnshire, England.
He was taken to Lincoln County Hospital’s intensive care unit, where he passed away on the same day as the incident.
Having begun his university education in September 2023, Head’s life ended abruptly only two months later. The official inquest revealed that he died from a hypoxic brain injury caused by aspiration pneumonia, which was a consequence of severe alcohol poisoning.
Head collapsed on his way back to his dormitory after attending a Lacrosse Society social event, where he consumed a lethal quantity of vodka. Paramedics reached him shortly after midnight, at which point he was in cardiac arrest.
The Lincolnshire Area Coroner, Jayne Wilkes, and PC Thomas Jacobs of the Lincolnshire Police provided detailed accounts of the night’s events. Jacobs, who was the responding officer, confirmed the sequence of events based on accounts from Head’s friends.
The loss of Head has profoundly affected his loved ones and the Lacrosse Society. He was known for his dynamic personality, passion for video games, and dedication to Arsenal FC. Despite not having prior experience, he was eager to join the lacrosse team. His family remembered him as a beloved figure who was excited to become an uncle.
Head’s father, Mark, 54, shared a heartfelt post on Facebook, reminiscing about his son’s joy and satisfaction at university, and the distressing call he received about his son’s critical condition.
The University of Lincoln’s Lacrosse Society expressed their sorrow over Head’s passing, recognizing his significant contribution to the team as an enthusiastic new goalkeeper.
This incident underscores the risks of excessive alcohol consumption, particularly in university environments where social drinking is common. The University of Lincoln and its students’ union extended their condolences to Head’s loved ones, emphasizing their support for those in mourning.