EDC, also known as Electric Daisy Carnival, is an annual electronic music festival known for its vibrant atmosphere, world-class DJs, and energetic crowds. However, beneath the dazzling fireworks and pulsating music lurk some hidden dangers.
Like at many other music festivals around the world, drugs are a popular recreational activity at EDC. Unfortunately, when you combine stimulants with the extreme temperatures of Las Vegas summers and slower response times from medical staff, you often get tragic losses.
Keep reading to learn about the dangers of overdosing at Electric Daisy Carnival and the precautions you can take to avoid these situations.
How Many People Die at EDC Every Year?
According to one report on music festival deaths, there have been 11 total fatalities at EDC, although the number is likely higher. The only sources for this information are news articles, and a variety of factors can contribute to false reporting or a lack of reporting. Festival organizers might be hesitant to release details about a death due to ongoing investigations or a fear of bad publicity. Other times these deaths fly under the radar, either occurring in secluded areas or appearing as nonfatal medical issues. However, with social media and forums like Reddit, there is a growing ability to discuss what happened at these events, and these users claim to have seen more fatalities.
One tragedy that sparked a change in venue was the death of 15-year-old Sasha Rodriguez at the 2010 EDC in Los Angeles. Sasha was too young to attend the festival but snuck in, took MDMA, and overdosed. This incident highlighted the dangers of illicit substances at EDC, particularly for young attendees. Sasha’s death was a major factor in the decision to relocate EDC to a 21+ venue in Las Vegas for future events.
Below is a table of known deaths that have occurred at EDC:
| EDC Location | Date | Victim | Age | Cause of Death |
| Las Vegas, Nevada | 2017 | Michael Morse | 34 | Ecstasy Overdose |
| Las Vegas, Nevada | 6/20/2016 | Kenani Kaimuloa | 20 | Ecstasy and Cocaine Overdose |
| Las Vegas, Nevada | 6/21/2015 | Nicholas Austin Tom | 24 | Ecstasy Overdose |
| Las Vegas, Nevada | 6/21/2014 | Montgomery Tsang | 24 | Ecstasy Overdose |
| Las Vegas, Nevada | 6/21/2014 | Anthony Anaya | 25 | Ecstasy and Cocaine Overdose |
| Las Vegas, Nevada | 6/11/2012 | Olivier Hennessy | 31 | Hit by a truck while staggering high/drunk |
| Las Vegas, Nevada | 6/10/2012 | Emily McCaughan | 22 | Fell out a window while experiencing paranoia from drugs |
| Dallas, Texas | 6/19/2011 | Kyle Haigis | 22 | Hit by a truck while high on hallucinogenic Foxy |
| Las Vegas, Nevada | 6/18/2011 | Andrew Graf | 19 | Amphetamine Overdose |
| Los Angeles, California | 6/29/2010 | Sasha Rodriguez | 15 | Ecstasy Overdose |
| Dallas, Texas | 6/23/2010 | Jesse Morales | 22 | Amphetamine Overdose |
Yes, You Can Overdose on Molly
Molly, also known as MDMA or ecstasy, is a popular party drug often associated with EDC. While some users perceive it as relatively harmless, overdoses can and do happen, especially when the drug is cut with unknown substances. MDMA affects the brain by increasing levels of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These chemicals are associated with feelings of pleasure, increased energy, and emotional connection. However, at high doses, this stimulation can become overwhelming and lead to an overdose.
Symptoms of MDMA Overdose
- High Body Temperature (Hyperthermia): This is a major concern with MDMA. The drug interferes with the body’s ability to regulate temperature, especially when combined with physical exertion and hot environments. Las Vegas summers can reach into the triple digits.
- Muscle breakdown (Rhabdomyolysis): High body temperature can lead to muscle breakdown, which can further damage the kidneys.
- Seizures: Uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain can cause seizures.
- Dehydration: Increased sweating and dancing can lead to dehydration, worsening other symptoms.
- Heart Problems: MDMA can raise heart rate and blood pressure, putting strain on the cardiovascular system.
- Confusion and Loss of Consciousness: As the body struggles, confusion and eventually unconsciousness can occur.
MDMA disrupts the body’s natural thermostat. Normally, sweating helps us cool down. However, under MDMA’s influence, sweating might not be enough, especially in hot environments or with intense physical activity. Body temperature can rise rapidly, leading to a potentially fatal condition called hyperthermia.
Safety Tips For EDC
If you or a loved one is planning to attend EDC, there are precautions you can take to stay safe. Obviously the easiest way to avoid a drug overdose is to not take drugs – but as we know, people are going to take drugs.
For those who do choose to take MDMA, it’s crucial that they test the drugs first. Drug test kits are easily available, and it’s important to make sure the substance is pure. If it passes the test, start with a very small dose. Many teenagers at festivals take an unnecessarily large dosage, assuming that more drugs will lead to more fun. Once the MDMA is ingested, you need to stay hydrated by drinking water regularly, but do not overhydrate. Around 8 ounces of water per hour is recommended. It’s also important not to mix MDMA with other drugs or alcohol.
Having at least one friend with you at the festival can be life-saving. Make sure that at least one person knows what you’re ingesting so that if a medical emergency arises, they can get you help and communicate to medical personnel what you took. During a medical emergency is not the time to lie about taking drugs – if they know what you ingested, there is a much better chance they can save your life.
While EDC does its best to prioritize safety and offer resources for attendees, it’s really up to each attendee to look out for their own safety. Being aware of the potential dangers – like heatstroke, dehydration, and substance abuse – is crucial for a safe and enjoyable music festival experience.