Two Teens Die from Suspected Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Hoffman Estates
Accidental Deaths Linked to Car’s Exhaust
Hoffman Estates police are investigating after two teens were found dead of carbon monoxide poisoning in a car early Sunday morning.
The Victims
The teens were identified as 17-year-old Yeferson A. Flores Ramos of Hoffman Estates and Litzy Flores, 16, of Carpentersville, according to the Cook County medical examiner’s office. Their deaths were ruled accidental as the result of carbon monoxide poisoning from the car’s exhaust.
Incident Details
According to Hoffman Estates police, officers and firefighters responded to the 200 block of East Berkley Lane at 12:37 a.m. for a report of two people who appeared to be unconscious in a vehicle. After finding the 16-year-old girl and a 17-year-old boy unresponsive, first responders forced open the vehicle, pulled the teens out and began lifesaving measures, police said. They were taken to St. Alexius Medical Center in Hoffman Estates, where they died.
Investigation Ongoing
The case remains under investigation, police said. Among the issues they are examining is whether there were issues with an after-market exhaust system installed on the vehicle.
School Response
Conant High School Principal Julie Nowak confirmed in a statement Sunday that Flores was a sophomore at the high school in Hoffman Estates, and Ramos was a senior. Therapists will be in the students’ classes Monday, she said. Additional support, including therapeutic staff and comfort dogs, will be available to any student in need.
Conclusion
The tragic loss of two young lives is a devastating reminder of the importance of vehicle safety and the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. As investigations continue, it is crucial to identify the factors that contributed to this tragedy and take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.
FAQs
* What happened to the two teens?
They were found dead of carbon monoxide poisoning in a car in Hoffman Estates.
* How did it happen?
The exact circumstances are still under investigation, but it is suspected that an after-market exhaust system installed on the vehicle may have been faulty.
* What is being done to support the students and families affected?
Conant High School has announced that therapists will be available in classes Monday, and additional support, including comfort dogs, will be available to any student in need.
* Are the police investigating the incident?
Yes, the Hoffman Estates police are investigating the incident to determine the cause of the carbon monoxide poisoning and whether any criminal charges will be filed.
