Northwood student found dead in ‘poison filled’ tent

The parents of a young man from Northwood who was found dead in a field have paid tribute to a “kind young man who took great pleasure in helping other people”. Oxford University student Andrew Kirkman, 20, was found by a passerby on Sunday (December 8) at 12.25pm, in a tent which police believe was filled with poisonous gas. Thames Valley Police have indicated that the death of the former Rickmansworth School student is “unexplained but there are no suspicious circumstances”. Superintendent Steve Hockin said: “Early indications are that the chemical involved in the death is hydrogen sulphide, but emergency services are working together to examine the scene and recover the body as safely as possible.” Andrew Kirkham’s parents paid tribute to the 20-year-old. They said: “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. We ask for the privacy of his family to be respected.” Balliol College (Oxford) master Sir Drummond Bone added his condolences. He said: “It is with deep sadness that we can confirm that Andrew Kirkman, a second year undergraduate at Balliol College reading Physics and Philosophy, died on Sunday on Port Meadow. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Andrew’s family and close friends at this extremely difficult time. He added: “Andrew was a friendly and thoughtful student and a valued contributor to the life of the college.” Port Meadow field, Oxford, was cordoned off after the discovery and six people were treated by paramedics at the scene. Specially trained CBRN officers attended the scene to ensure its safety, before further investigations began. Thames Valley Police, Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service and South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) are currently working together to progress access to allow investigations.