AN investigation has been launched into the death of a man who spent several weeks in a coma after apparently taking drugs at a party.

Stephen Mark Blayden, of Maria Street, Darwen, died on August 20 at the intensive care unit of Queen's Park Hospital.

Police believe Mr Blayden was taken to hospital after taking drugs at a party and are treating the death as suspicious.

One post-mortem examination has already been carried out and detectives have requested a second examination and further tests.

An inquest has been opened into the death but acting coroner Michael Singleton adjourned the hearing because of the police request.

A spokesman for Blackburn CID said: "We are making further inquiries and at the moment we are viewing the death as suspicious. We have asked for further tests so we can establish the exact cause of death."

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