One individual has passed away, and seven others have been treated following a suspected carbon monoxide incident at a takeaway establishment in Walsall.
Authorities from West Midlands Police responded to the shop in Cresswell Crescent, Bloxwich, at approximately 9.40 pm on Friday due to concerns for a man in his 50s, who was later confirmed deceased at the location. Residents in the vicinity were evacuated as a precaution but were permitted to return early Saturday after safety tests were conducted, as mentioned by a local council member.
A representative from the police department expressed condolences, stating, “Our sympathies are with the family of the deceased during this tragic time. Seven individuals, including emergency responders, were treated for suspected carbon monoxide exposure at the scene, with some requiring hospital evaluation.”
Councillor Michael Coulson shared on social media that the incident occurred at a food takeaway outlet at Mossley shops. Firefighters were called to assist an injured person, but access to the premises was hindered by a generator emitting a mix of gases.
In an update on Saturday, Coulson reported, “I visited the site of yesterday’s unfortunate fatality. Following safety checks, residents were allowed back into their homes around 3 am, and the shops resumed operations this morning. A minor police presence remains, and I expressed gratitude for their assistance.”
A spokesperson for West Midlands Police mentioned, “We responded to a business location in Cresswell Crescent, Bloxwich, around 9.40 pm yesterday (26 September) due to concerns for an individual’s well-being. Regrettably, a man in his 50s was pronounced dead at the scene. Our thoughts are with the family during this difficult period.”
Seven individuals, including emergency personnel, were attended to for suspected carbon monoxide exposure, with some receiving further medical attention. A few nearby properties were temporarily evacuated but have since been cleared for reentry.
Collaboration with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) will be pursued to ascertain the complete circumstances of the incident.