Three individuals were tragically discovered dead inside a minibus found submerged in a ditch along Mabura Road, victims of carbon monoxide poisoning, a postmortem examination has determined.

The incident, which has raised serious questions about the circumstances leading to the toxic gas buildup and why the victims were inside the bus, is currently under investigation by authorities seeking answers.

The deceased have been identified by police as Leon Achee, Reva Bovell, and Vincent Albert Fausette. They were found lifeless inside the minibus along the Mabura Trail.

According to a police statement, Leon Achee, the driver of the minibus, and his passengers were discovered with the rear of the vehicle submerged, indicating it was stuck in a deep pothole. Investigators noted that the minibus’s engine was running, and all windows were found locked.

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning can occur in vehicles due to various factors, including a damaged exhaust system that allows CO to accumulate inside instead of being expelled. Another potential cause is a blocked tailpipe, which can cause exhaust gases, including CO, to back up into the vehicle’s interior.

Authorities suspect that the victims had been sleeping in the bus overnight when the tragedy unfolded. Upon examination, no signs of violence were found on the exposed parts of their bodies, leading investigators to rule out foul play.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by carbon monoxide in confined spaces, highlighting the need for awareness and caution in such environments.