Mother Blames 'Evil' Ketamine for Son's Death

A promising young rugby league player, Josh Perry, tragically died after falling from a 19th-floor car park in Liverpool. An inquest heard that his mother believes his death was caused by an 'evil' ketamine addiction, which began when he was 17. Josh, who had previously played for Warrington Wolves, was found with severe injuries on March 14, 2025. Toxicology reports confirmed ketamine in his system.

While Josh had been attending a rehabilitation program and trying to turn his life around, concerns arose about a potential relapse in the days before his death. The coroner recorded a narrative conclusion, stating she couldn't be sure Josh intended to end his life, noting his ketamine use may have affected his cognitive function and that he had made plans for the future.

Josh's mother has publicly criticized the widespread availability of ketamine, calling it an 'epidemic' that is 'infecting our children.' She also raised concerns about the car park's safety railings, suggesting they were inadequate and easily climbed. The coroner indicated she would issue a report warning of potential future tragedies if safety measures are not improved.