Oxford Student Found Dead In Tent After 'Mixing Chemicals'

Oxford Student Found Dead In Tent After 'Mixing Chemicals'
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An Oxford student killed himself with a cocktail of chemicals he had mixed together.

Andrew Kirkman, 20, was found dead in a tent in a field in Oxford on Sunday just hours after breaking from his studies for Christmas.

Andrew, who was in his second year at Balliol, was found by a walker. It is thought he died after making hydrogen sulphide gas.

Six other people were also treated for exposure to dangerous fumes after the discovery of his body led to a chemical alert.

A friend of the tragic student said last night that he had told her just a few week ago that he was having a 'rough time'.

Daneille Bethel, 19, told the Daily Mail: "I messaged Andrew on Facebook a few weeks ago and asked how he was getting on at Oxford. He replied that he was having a rough time. I asked if there was anything I could do to help but he didn't reply."

The devastated girl added: He had a brilliant mind and so much potential to do something amazing. I can't believe he has gone. He was just incredibly smart."

Andrew had previously tweeted about exam worries, telling a friend back in May: 'I feel ok but there's a very real chance I'll fail all of mine.'

His heartbroken mum and dad, Wendy and Michael, issued a statement through the university last night, and paid tribute to their 'friendly and thoughtful' son.

"Andy was loved by everyone who knew him. He was a kind young man who took great pleasure in helping other people. He will be sorely missed."

A police spokesman said said there were no suspicious circumstances and officers were treating the death as unexplained.

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