Man Dies in Carbon Monoxide Incident at Bloxwich Takeaway
A man in his 50s died Friday evening following a suspected carbon monoxide leak at a takeaway restaurant in Bloxwich, West Midlands. Emergency services were called to the burger shop on Cresswell Crescent at approximately 9:40 PM after concerns were raised about a man's welfare. Despite attempts by medics to resuscitate him using CPR, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.
The incident resulted in seven additional people receiving treatment for suspected carbon monoxide exposure, including some emergency service workers who responded to the call. Several of those affected were transported to hospital for further assessment. Witnesses reported seeing three ambulances, four police cars, and a fire engine at the location, with forensic teams arriving later to investigate the circumstances.
Nearby residents and businesses were evacuated as a precaution while emergency crews conducted safety tests. Local ward councillor Michael Coulson indicated on social media that firefighters had been unable to initially access the property because a generator was "releasing a mixture of gases." The evacuation affected several surrounding properties, but residents were allowed to return to their homes around 3 AM Saturday after authorities completed their assessments.
West Midlands Police confirmed they are working with the Health and Safety Executive to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident. The police spokesperson expressed condolences to the man's loved ones, describing it as a "devastating time." Local shops in the area have since reopened, with only a small police presence remaining at the scene as the investigation continues.
