"Drugs have gotten stronger:" After 18-year-old who ingested Molly dies, officials re-issue warnings

“Drugs have gotten stronger:” After 18-year-old who ingested Molly dies, officials re-issue warnings

MILWAUKEE -- 18-year-old Kara Starr died at the hospital after a night at The Rave, and before her death, she told EMTs at The Rave that she had taken the drug "Molly."

According to a report from the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner's Office, Starr was unresponsive by the time she got to the hospital. She died early on Sunday morning, May 1st.

The Rave/Eagles Club

Starr was at The Rave for the Zomboy concert -- an electronic music DJ on an 18-city tour.

According to the medical examiner's report, Starr tested positive for amphetamines and cannabinoids at the hospital. The report indicates Starr had been seizing at The Rave. An EMT who worked at The Rave told officials Starr had been talking prior to the arrival of Milwaukee Fire Department officials at The Rave. She indicated that she was at The Rave with her 17-year-old boyfriend, and that she had taken ".4 of Molly" -- a synthetic drug that alters mood and perception.

Sara Schreiber

Sara Schreiber, ‎technical forensic supervisor at Milwaukee County Medical Examiners Office says Molly has evolved.

"This was a love drug. This was a club drug that was really popular several years back. They may be mixtures. They may be other substances in totality -- but they're still asking for these types of stimulants," Schreiber said.

The cause of death for Starr, of Minooka, Illinois, remains undetermined, pending results from toxicology testing -- but Ken Hartenstein, a professional counselor, says the circumstances surrounding Starr's death can serve as a harsh reminder of what can happen when it comes to drug use.

Ken Hartenstein

"Theres no way to know how strong the drug is that you're taking. Especially when you're talking about teens and 20 somethings -- there's little fear. There's almost an attitude of 'hey we`ll try anything.' The drugs themselves have gotten stronger over the years. I hope people can find a way to enjoy the life that's all around us without needing to resort to drugs to supposedly make it better," Hartenstein said.

The Rave has issued a statement on this matter. It reads as follows:

"On Saturday night/early Sunday morning our staff was made aware of a problem with an 18-year-old female patron. We took immediate action to assess her condition under the supervision of a medical professional. Her boyfriend informed us that drugs were purchased and ingested before the woman and her boyfriend arrived at the venue. After undergoing observation, 911 was contacted and the woman was transported to the hospital. The Rave/Eagles Club takes every precaution to ensure that our patrons enjoy our shows in a safe environment.

We extend our sincere condolences to her family and friends."