As reported by the Washington Post, four children were killed after a pesticide released toxic gas underneath their home, police said. The tragedy happened in Amarillo, TX.
Initially, first responders naturally suspect carbon monoxide poisoning. But interviews with family members — as well as a distinct odor in the home — ruled out the colorless and odorless gas. Instead, investigators concluded that someone had used a professional-grade pesticide containing aluminum phosphide under the home.
A family member had attempted to wash the chemical from beneath the house with water. The combination of water and aluminum phosphide creates phosphine, a gas that can cause fluid to accumulate in the lungs.
Some reports suggest that a rodent problem led to the family’s decision to have the pesticide applied in the first place.
