Freak accident in Fitches Creek cistern claims one life and hospitalizes another; carbon monoxide poisoning suspected

A man is said to have died in a freak accident in Fitches Creek today,
January 3, leaving neighbours in shock. Several other persons were
said to have been affected, as well, in what appears to be a case of
poisoning by carbon monoxide.

Residents of the community claim that at least two persons were
pumping water from a cistern when they decided to lower the
equipment into the underground space.

Reportedly, the fumes from the pump eventually overcame the
workers and a third person who rushed to their assistance.

Unconfirmed reports say that, in their weakened state, one young
man was unable to get out of the enclosed space in time to be saved,
and a second person has since been hospitalized in the Intensive
Care Unit.

Neighbours claim that some of the first responders – the Emergency
Medical Service (EMS), Fire Department, and Police – were affected,
as well, during the rescue, and they are praising the efforts of the
professionals who revived and attended the survivors.

REAL News will report further on this story as details are confirmed.