Belagavi: Three young men lost their lives and another remains in critical condition after allegedly inhaling carbon monoxide from a charcoal stove lit to warm their room amid cold weather in Belagavi, Karnataka. The incident, which occurred late on Monday night in the Aman Nagar area, has shocked the local community and raised concerns about the dangers of using charcoal stoves in closed spaces.
According to police, the deceased have been identified as Rehan Motte (22), Moheen Nalaband (23) and Sarfaraj Harapanahalli (22). The fourth youth, Shah Nawaz (19), was found unconscious and has been admitted to hospital, where he continues to remain critical. Police officials confirmed that all four youths were related to each other.
Youths found unconscious inside locked room
The tragedy came to light on Tuesday morning when the families of the youths broke open the door after repeated knocks went unanswered. Inside the room, they found the four lying motionless. Emergency services and police were immediately alerted, but three of the youths had already succumbed.
Police said the group had returned home on Monday night after attending a social function. Owing to the cold weather, they lit a charcoal stove inside their room to keep themselves warm. However, the room had no ventilation, and the door had been tightly shut from the inside, creating a fatal build-up of fumes.
Carbon monoxide suspected as cause of death
Preliminary investigations suggest that the deaths resulted from asphyxiation caused by carbon monoxide poisoning. A senior police officer explained that the smoke and fumes emitted by the burning charcoal gradually reduced oxygen levels inside the room. Carbon monoxide, an odourless and highly toxic gas, likely accumulated through the night, rendering the youths unconscious before they could react.
Experts note that charcoal-based stoves should never be used in enclosed spaces, as they release dangerous gases that can be fatal when inhaled in large quantities.
Police and forensic teams inspect the spot
Officials from the Malamaruti Police Station, along with forensic experts, visited the scene on Tuesday to gather evidence and prepare a detailed report. They inspected the stove, the condition of the room and the surroundings to confirm whether any other factors may have contributed to the deaths.
Police have stated that there are no signs of foul play and that the incident appears to be a tragic case of accidental poisoning. Statements from family members and neighbours are being recorded as part of the ongoing investigation.
Local MLA visits bereaved families
Belagavi North MLA Asif Sait also visited the spot and met the grieving families. He expressed deep sorrow over the incident and assured them of all necessary support from the authorities. Community members in Aman Nagar have been offering assistance to the affected families and participating in funeral arrangements.
Rising concerns over winter-related accidents
With temperatures dipping across the region, authorities have urged residents to exercise caution when using traditional heating methods such as charcoal stoves or makeshift heaters. Experts emphasise the importance of proper ventilation when using any device that emits smoke or fumes.
Incidents of carbon monoxide poisoning often go unnoticed during winter months, particularly in areas where people rely on simple heating methods. Police have advised the public to avoid lighting charcoal stoves indoors and to ensure adequate air circulation to prevent such accidents.
Conclusion
The deaths of the three young men in Belagavi serve as a grim reminder of the hidden dangers associated with using charcoal stoves in enclosed rooms. As investigations continue, the focus has shifted towards educating the public about safe heating practices. Meanwhile, Shah Nawaz continues to fight for his life in hospital, and the community stands in solidarity with the bereaved families.