Woman killed by marshmallow after party stunt goes wrong
Jess Hardiman
Featured Image Credit: Wales News Service
A woman tragically died after a marshmallow game went wrong at a party held at a packed-out rugby clubhouse.
Natalie Buss, 37, was among contestants taking part in a challenge to raise money for one of the junior sides where her children play rugby.
The popular clubhouse for Beddau RFC near Pontypridd, South Wales, had been busy all day with people watching the Rugby World Cup on Saturday (7 October).
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Along with a performance from a singer, the event also featured a marshmallow challenge, which saw people given 60 seconds to see how many marshmallows they could swallow as friends and family cheered them on.
However, the day turned to disaster when emergency services were called to the clubhouse after chartered accountant Natalie ‘collapsed and died’ at around 10pm.
Fellow members at the clubhouse desperately tried to revive her, but sadly the mum-of-two could not be saved.
A spokesperson for South Wales Police said: "A 37-year-old woman collapsed and died.
"The HM Coroner has been informed and inquiries into the circumstances of the death are continuing.”
The Welsh Ambulance Service described the incident as a ‘medical emergency’ and confirmed it sent two ambulances to the scene.
It added: "Crews were also supported by emergency medical retrieval and transfer service colleagues."
It is feared Natalie choked while taking part in the party game, with family waiting for the results of a post mortem examination.
A Beddau RFC spokesperson said what happened was a ‘tragic accident’, and would not confirm what part Natalie had taken in the challenge, nor who had organised the contest.
Natalie worked as a company accountant for finance firm UHY Hacker Young alongside husband Elliott, 40, who is a partner at the company.
The firm said it did not wish to comment on the incident.
Tributes have come pouring in for Natalie in the wake of her death, including from friends, supporters and fellow rugby clubs.
Llantrisant Rugby Club said: "Sending our deepest condolences to the family and all at Beddau RFC. Our thoughts are with you all at this difficult time."
Porth Harlequins added: "Sending our deepest condolences to the family and all at Beddau RFC. Our thoughts are with you all at this terrible time."
Labour MP Alex Davies-Jones also said in a statement: "Really sad to read this awful news today. My heart goes out to all those affected and my thoughts are with their family and friends.
"If there is anything I can do to help anyone who might be impacted, please get in touch."
A spokesperson for the coroner confirmed an inquest into Natalie's death is expected to open later this month.