FATHER SHOWS UP TO HELP CHANGE FLAT TIRE, FINDS HIS MOTHER AND CHILDREN UNCONSCIOUS IN THE VEHICLE
A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in Toledo, Ohio, on Wednesday after three family members died and two children were left fighting for their lives following an apparent carbon monoxide poisoning inside a parked vehicle. Update- A third child has died.
According to Toledo Fire & Rescue, crews responded just after 11 a.m. to the 300 block of Phillips Avenue near Detroit Avenue after five people—including four children—were found unconscious inside a Ford Explorer.
Officials said the family had pulled into a parking lot after getting a flat tire. While waiting for help to arrive, they remained inside the SUV with the windows rolled up and the air conditioner running to stay cool.
The children’s father, who had been called to help, arrived at the scene and made the devastating discovery. He found his mother and the four children unconscious inside the vehicle.
First responders, including Toledo Fire’s hazardous materials team, immediately began life-saving efforts before all five victims were transported to area hospitals.
City officials later confirmed that three of the victims died. According to a City of Toledo spokesperson, those killed were a grandmother and two of her grandchildren. Two other children remain hospitalized in critical condition.
Authorities have not yet publicly identified the victims.
Fire Chief Allison Armstrong said carbon monoxide was confirmed inside the vehicle and investigators believe the incident was a tragic accident. Officials said there is no ongoing danger to the public.
In a statement, Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz called the deaths an accidental carbon monoxide poisoning.
“Our hearts are with this family as they face an unimaginable loss, and we are praying for the recovery of the two children who continue to fight for their lives,” the mayor said. “We also extend our gratitude to the first responders, medical personnel, and law enforcement officers who responded swiftly and did everything they could under incredibly difficult circumstances.”
Automotive experts say exhaust leaks—particularly near the front of a vehicle—can allow deadly carbon monoxide to enter the passenger cabin through the ventilation system, creating a potentially fatal situation even while a vehicle is running.
