A family camping trip turned tragic on September 14, 2024, when 12-year-old Kaicy Brown and his grandfather, David Brown, 66, were found dead in their tent in Powys, Wales.
The pair, discovered by Kaicy’s uncle, are believed to have died from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning. The toxic gas is thought to have been caused by a camping stove used during the trip. Emergency services rushed to the scene, but both victims were unresponsive and could not be saved. Kaicy’s younger brother, also at the campsite, was taken to the hospital and later discharged.
The deaths are being treated as accidental, and authorities have ruled out foul play. A police spokesperson stated that the deaths were being treated as unexplained but “there aren’t believed to be any suspicious circumstances.” Senior coroner Graeme Hughes confirmed during the inquest that toxicology tests will determine the carbon monoxide levels in Kaicy’s blood, with the hearing adjourned to a later date for further investigation.
Kaicy and his family had traveled over 200 miles from their home in Earley, Berkshire to the campsite in mid-Wales. After staying overnight, the tragic incident occurred. The family has been left heartbroken by the sudden and devastating loss of both Kaicy and David, and the local community has rallied to support them.
In a tribute to Kaicy, his former primary school, Sonning Church of England Primary School, described him as “an exceptionally talented artist” beloved by his classmates and teachers. The school emphasized his easy-going nature and his knack for making friends, recalling fond memories of Kaicy’s artistic talent and his participation in the school’s productions. A school spokesperson said, “Memories of Kaicy’s starring role in the Year 6 production will always make us smile.”
Kaicy’s grandmother, Mandy, a teaching assistant at the school for over 20 years, has also been deeply affected by the loss. A GoFundMe page was set up to help Kaicy’s mother, Jessica, who is now facing the unimaginable grief of losing both her son and her father in such tragic circumstances. The fundraiser explained, “The money raised will go toward funeral costs and legal fees,” as there have been family disputes over where Kaicy will be laid to rest. So far, over £1,500 has been raised, with a goal of £5,000.
As the inquest into the deaths continues, investigators are looking into the exact cause of the suspected carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas, often referred to as the “silent killer,” and can build up in enclosed spaces when fuel-burning appliances like camping stoves are used without proper ventilation. The toxic gas can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and in high concentrations, it can be fatal within minutes.
The tragedy has highlighted the dangers of carbon monoxide during camping trips, with many safety advocates urging campers to use stoves and heaters outside tents or in well-ventilated areas.
The local community in Berkshire has come together to support the grieving family. A second GoFundMe page was established by Sonning Church of England Primary School, where Kaicy attended before starting secondary school. The page has also been set up to help David’s widow, Mandy. The school described Kaicy as “a kind, thoughtful, and emotionally-aware boy” who had a bright future ahead of him.
As the family continues to process the loss of Kaicy and David, the wider community is rallying behind them with an outpouring of support. In a social media post, the school community said, “We are coming together to show our love and support for the family at this tragic time and to let them know we are here for them.”