4 people die from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning in New Hampshire

Rick Sobey, Boston Herald on Dec 26, 2024

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Four people have died from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning in a New Hampshire residence, according to officials who reported that the victims were found dead on Christmas.

The Wakefield, N.H. Police Department responded to 2962 Province Lake Road for a welfare check at around 4:21 p.m. on Wednesday.

When police officers arrived, they found four people who were dead. Investigators from the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office were requested to respond to the scene.

The names of the four victims, all adults, were being withheld pending next of kin notification.

“While the investigation remains active and ongoing, at this time, investigators believe the victims died as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning,” New Hampshire officials wrote in a release.

Autopsies were scheduled to be performed by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner on Thursday to confirm the cause and manner of death for each of the victims.

“State Fire Marshal Toomey would like to remind everyone of the importance of having working carbon monoxide alarms in their homes,” officials wrote. “In the event of an alarm activation, residents should immediately exit their homes and call 9-1-1. Anyone with questions about home fire and carbon monoxide safety should contact their local fire department or the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office.”

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death if inhaled, according to the CDC. It claims the lives of hundreds of people every year and makes thousands more ill.

Many household items including gas- and oil-burning furnaces, portable generators, and charcoal grills produce this poison gas.

“Install battery-operated or battery back-up CO detectors near every sleeping area in your home,” the CDC states. “Check CO detector batteries when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall to be sure they are functioning properly… Replace your CO detector following the manufacturer’s instructions or every 5 years. Set a reminder on your smartphone or other device calendar when you purchase and install the detector.”

Anyone with information that may help with the Wakefield investigation is urged to contact the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office at 603-223-4289 or fmo@dos.nh.gov.

The New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office was assisted at the scene by members of Wakefield Fire Rescue, the Wakefield Police Department, and the New Hampshire State Police.

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