A resident shared her harrowing experience of narrowly escaping a fatal incident involving suspected carbon monoxide poisoning at a local takeaway, which tragically claimed the life of a man in his 50s. Following reports of a potential carbon monoxide leak in Bloxwich, Walsall, emergency services responded to the scene on Cresswell Crescent, leading to the evacuation of nearby residents and businesses.
Cara Jackson, 23, recounted her unsettling night at the One Stop convenience store adjacent to the affected takeaway, expressing gratitude for being awake during the incident as advised by firefighters. She witnessed the efforts to resuscitate the man and later underwent testing after potential exposure to harmful gases.
The emergency response involved multiple ambulances, police vehicles, and fire personnel, with several individuals, including emergency responders, receiving medical attention for suspected carbon monoxide exposure. Fortunately, evacuated residents were allowed to return home after safety checks in the early hours of the following day.
Local councilor Michael Coulson detailed the challenges faced by firefighters due to a generator emitting hazardous gases, causing delays in accessing the premises. Following thorough assessments, normalcy was restored in the area, with shops reopening and residents returning home.
West Midlands Police confirmed the tragic loss of the man and extended condolences to his family. They highlighted the treatment of seven individuals for potential carbon monoxide poisoning and pledged cooperation with the Health and Safety Executive to investigate the incident further.