Tragedy struck Allipur Bhud village as five family members succumbed to suspected asphyxiation caused by smoke from an 'angeethi' or coal brazier while they slept in a closed room, according to police reports on Tuesday.
Two additional family members were rushed to the hospital in the wake of the incident.
Emergency services were engaged, rushing them to a nearby hospital. Despite medical efforts, five of the victims, identified as Sonam (19), Waris (17), Mehak (16), Zaid (15), and Mahir (12), were declared brought dead.
How did the incident take place?
The incident unfolded in the village, with preliminary indications pointing to asphyxiation due to the presence of the 'angeethi' in the room where the family members were sleeping.
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However, authorities are launching a thorough investigation to determine the precise cause of the deaths, as stated by a police officer.
Concerns arose when none of the seven individuals emerged from their residence since Monday night.
Prompted by the alarming situation, villagers forcibly opened the door on Tuesday evening, discovering all seven family members unconscious.
Police told News 18, “Prima facie the cause of death could be due to lack of oxygen because these people had burnt a coal brazier in their room."
The combustion of coal (angithi) in an enclosed area can cause respiratory problems and suffocation, emitting detrimental gases such as carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide; when burned in a confined space, it diminishes oxygen flow, potentially resulting in fatal consequences through extended exposure to these hazardous gases.
