UPDATE: A tragic incident at Lux nightclub in Belfast has resulted in the death of 24-year-old beautician Chloe Ferris, following a lethal mix of cocaine, ketamine, and alcohol. The shocking revelation was made during an inquest at Laganside Court on December 3, 2025, just over a year after her untimely passing.
Chloe was discovered unresponsive in the nightclub’s restroom during her birthday celebration in the early hours of December 1. The inquest revealed that before heading to Lux, Chloe and friends had been drinking at her home, later moving to a city center bar. Eyewitness accounts indicated that Chloe, embarrassed to use her own phone, arranged for cocaine through a friend’s device.
Witnesses testified that using cocaine was out of character for Chloe, although she had purchased it previously. After consuming the drug in the bar’s restroom, the group proceeded to Lux around 1 AM.
CCTV footage from the nightclub shows Chloe entering a bathroom stall with a friend at approximately 1:17 AM. Concerned staff conducted routine checks, realizing the door had not opened for nearly 30 minutes. Attempts to see inside revealed both women unconscious. Emergency services were called at 1:55 AM, with responders arriving within minutes, deemed a “speedy” response.
Paramedics and firefighters had to use a reciprocal saw to gain access to the stall. Tragically, Chloe was found in a position that indicated she had fallen off the toilet, leading to positional asphyxia. Despite CPR efforts, a pulse was never detected, and she was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
The inquest disclosed that Chloe’s blood alcohol level stood at 107 mg per liter, above the legal limit of 80 mg. It was emphasized that the combination of alcohol and cocaine creates a “lethal combination,” leading to unpredictable and dangerous effects on the body. Coroner Joe McCrisken expressed concerns that Chloe might have unknowingly ingested cocaine mixed with ketamine, further complicating the situation.
The court also highlighted that Chloe’s body position contributed significantly to her death, as she was unable to breathe properly due to her posture. McCrisken echoed the sentiments of Chloe’s father, Declan Ferris, who warned that using drugs is akin to “playing Russian roulette” with one’s life. He urged the public to recognize the extreme risks associated with such actions, especially as many may indulge in similar behaviors during the festive season.
Authorities confirm that a criminal investigation into Chloe’s death remains ongoing. This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of substance abuse, particularly the deadly outcomes that can arise from mixing drugs and alcohol.
Stay informed as this story develops. For more breaking news from Belfast, visit Belfast Live.
