Couple found dead after inhaling generator Fumes in Rivers

The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the tragic death of a couple who reportedly died from inhaling generator fumes inside their apartment in Port Harcourt.

According to reports, the couple, whose identities have not been disclosed, placed a generator inside the passage of their apartment due to a power outage and heavy rainfall. Unfortunately, this led to their untimely demise.

An eyewitness, identified as James, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the incident occurred in the Port Harcourt Township area. He explained that the couple likely assumed the fumes would not reach them in their bedroom.

Concerned neighbors raised the alarm on Saturday morning after the couple failed to come out of their room. After knocking repeatedly with no response, they forcefully entered the apartment and discovered the lifeless bodies. The incident was immediately reported to the Central Police Station in Port Harcourt Township.

Police spokesperson SP Grace Iringe-Koko confirmed that the couple died from carbon monoxide inhalation. Their bodies have been deposited at the morgue.

A medical expert, Dr. Chinazor Offor, explained that carbon monoxide displaces oxygen in the blood, leading to heart and respiratory failure.

“If a person is exposed for between five to 15 minutes, the heart stops pumping blood, which affects both the brain and respiratory system,” she said.

Dr. Offo warned the public to avoid placing generators near living spaces, emphasizing that they should be positioned far from homes to prevent exposure to toxic fumes.