In Nahant, Massachusetts, a well-being check on Monday, January 8, 2024, led to the tragic discovery of three family members found deceased in their home.
The victims were identified as 45-year-old Andrew Carruth, his uncle, 77-year-old John Benson, and John’s sister-in-law, 74-year-old Youngae Benson.
Authorities from the Nahant Police Department and the Nahant Fire Department responded to the scene. Upon entry, they found the three deceased victims.
According to reports, elevated levels of carbon monoxide were detected in the home. The Essex County District Attorney’s Office, under the guidance of Paul F. Tucker, confirmed that foul play is not suspected in the deaths.
The home on Cottage St. in Nahant, 15 miles northeast of Boston, had been occupied by the Benson family for decades. Neighbors expressed shock and sorrow over the incident.
Long-time resident John Molenti described the Benson’s as wonderful people and a great presence in the community.
Another resident, Ted Mahoney, said that he was heartbroken, telling a local news outlet that “you couldn’t get better people.”
The Nahant Police Department extended their thoughts and prayers to the Benson family, recognizing the profound loss through a statement on Facebook. This sentiment was echoed in a press release shared by the district attorney’s office.
State Fire Marshal Jon M. Divine stressed that carbon monoxide is an invisible threat, being colorless, odorless, and tasteless, and underscored the necessity of regular maintenance of these alarms.
Carbon monoxide is produced from the incomplete combustion of various fuels and can emanate from sources such as gas stoves, leaking chimneys, furnaces, and space heaters. According to health and safety experts, the gas impedes the body’s ability to use oxygen, leading to potentially fatal consequences.
The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning often resemble those of the flu, including headaches, dizziness, and nausea, but can rapidly escalate to more severe conditions like confusion, disorientation, and loss of consciousness. In extreme cases, prolonged exposure can result in death.