Burnt rice fumes kill two Kuwadzana kids?

Zim Now Writer

A heartbreaking incident has unfolded in Kuwadzana Extension suburb, Harare, where two siblings lost their lives. One version is that they inhaled fumes from burnt rice while another is alleging a multi-murder/suicide tragedy.

Atidaishe Makechemu, 10, and Atipaishe Makechemu, 8, were discovered unconscious in their home on Monday morning, along with ttheir mother and two other siblings aged 4 and 14.

The tragedy unfolded when neighbors noticed smoke emanating from the Makechemu residence. Concerned, they entered the house to find five people lying unconscious. A pot containing burnt rice was found on a burning stove, leading authorities to believe this was the source of the toxic fumes.

"They died on admission," confirmed Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi. Atidaishe and Atipaishe were rushed to a local clinic but succumbed to their injuries upon arrival. "The three other victims were referred to Sally Mugabe Hospital where they are currently admitted," Nyathi added.

Some neighbours have speculated that the mother deliberately poisoned the whole family

The dangers of smoke inhalation, particularly from burnt food, are often underestimated. Smoke can irritate and inflame the airways and lungs, leading to respiratory distress and, in severe cases, death.