Kira Booth found dead at home after taking laughing gas

Kira Booth, a 21-year-old mother, tragically passed away after using nitrous oxide (laughing gas) while fighting a chest infection, a coroner has ruled. Her body was discovered in her Burnley apartment by a support worker in November.

Kira, described by her family as a “kind and generous” young woman who loved swimming, gymnastics, football, and dancing, had moved out of her family home but remained close to her parents and five siblings.

An inquest at Preston Coroner’s Court revealed that Kira struggled with mental health issues, including a borderline personality disorder diagnosis, and had been sectioned multiple times under the Mental Health Act. After giving birth, she lived in a mother-and-baby unit before moving into her own flat.

Earlier in 2024, Kira reported hearing voices to a social worker, leading to her being separated from her child. She was only allowed to see her baby three times a week.

Her mother, Carla Booth, grew concerned after Kira disappeared from social media for 24 hours—unusual behavior for her. Police later confirmed Kira had died in her flat.

What Was Found in Her Home?

• Multiple nitrous oxide canisters (one near her bed, another behind a sofa, and 18 packed for disposal).

• Used and unused medication strips.

• Two small plastic bags that may have contained cocaine.

A post-mortem examination found no physical injuries but detected cocaine in her system. However, nitrous oxide does not show up in toxicology tests after death.

Coroner’s Conclusion

Coroner Kate Bissett ruled Kira’s death as misadventure, stating:

“Kira Booth died on November 12, 2024, at her home address, having consumed nitrous oxide whilst suffering with a chest infection.”

She emphasized that Kira was not a habitual drug user and had a “strong will to live,” using substances recreationally rather than addictively. There was no evidence of self-harm or third-party involvement.

A Family’s Heartbreak

Kira’s loved ones remember her as a vibrant young woman who faced her struggles head-on. Her death highlights the dangers of recreational drug use, especially when combined with underlying health issues.