Two individuals, a man and a woman, were found dead in a Tavares home yesterday due to suspected carbon monoxide poisoning. Local authorities responded to a neighbor's request for a wellness check at a residence within the Tiki Village mobile home park, where they found the bodies of the couple, as reported by WFTV.
The Tavares Police Department highlighted indicators suggesting the cause might have been carbon monoxide from a generator the couple used in a shed attached to their home after losing power during Hurricane Milton. Neighbors had expressed concerns to the couple about the generator placement, which is close to living spaces. Despite the medical examiner's need to complete autopsies, authorities suggested that no foul play is suspected. According to Inside Lake, the victims were identified by TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan as Perry Leintz, 67, and Constance Albrecht, 85.
Following the incident, the American Red Cross issued safety tips regarding generator use. They emphasize the importance of operating such devices outdoors and away from areas that can channel exhaust into living spaces. The Red Cross cautions that opening windows or using fans isn't sufficient to prevent carbon monoxide buildup, as the gas is both colorless and odorless, and exposure can have rapid and fatal consequences. Furthermore, they recommend installing and regularly testing carbon monoxide alarms in homes.
