Student dies from too much vodka in a drinking game gone wrong

A student whose Facebook profile declared “it is better to die from vodka than from boredom” has died from drinking too much vodka. 

Humberto Moura Fonseca was taking part in a drinking game when he collapsed from alcohol poisoning.

The 23-year-old had downed 25 shots of vodka in less than 60 seconds, after which he collapsed.

Mr Fonseca was rushed to hospital, along with six other students who had also collapsed with alcohol poisoning, but he died on the way. Three other people remained in intensive care.

His friend, Rodrigo Pancetti, 23, commented that the group of friends was “having a great time” when someone suggested a drinking competition and “Humberto and the others were really up for it.

“On his Facebook there’s a quote, a motto, from the Russian poet Vladimir Maiakovski which says ‘It is better to die from vodka than from boredom’.

“I never thought that would become reality. But once he had finished he said he felt ill and suddenly collapsed.”

The drinking game the University of Julio de Mesquita student was taking part in took place in Bauru, south-western Brazil.

Police are investigating whether they can charge the organisers – themselves fourth year students – with homicide. 

A university spokesman commented: “We very much regret the death of this young man and our condolences go out to his family and friends”. 

“We would like to remind students that drinking alcohol in the university is banned”.