MARION COUNTY, Fla. — Four people were found dead inside a Marion County home late Friday night, and authorities believe carbon monoxide poisoning may be the cause, according to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO).
Deputies responded around 10:30 p.m. on Friday, February 6, to a residence on Banyan Track Way to conduct a welfare check. Upon entering the home, deputies discovered two adults and two children deceased.
On Monday, February 9, MCSO identified the victims as:
- Yohan Sanchez, 33
- Rebeca Santos, 37
- Michael Melendez, 15
- Samuel Sanchez, 2
Officials said there are no signs of foul play, and while the Medical Examiner will determine the official cause of death, investigators believe all four may have died from carbon monoxide poisoning.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas often referred to as a “silent killer” because it provides no warning signs before exposure becomes dangerous. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 400 people die each year in the United States from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning, with thousands more becoming ill.
Common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are often described as flu-like and may include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion.
Authorities remind residents that working carbon monoxide detectors inside the home are one of the most effective ways to detect dangerous CO gas buildup and prevent tragedies like this.
The investigation remains ongoing as the Medical Examiner completes its review.
