Two women found dead days apart in same California motel room as carbon monoxide hazard discovered

Authorities in northern California are investigating the deaths of two women who were found in a motel room just days apart. The tragic incidents occurred at the Lamplighter Inn on the 4000 block of Broadway in Eureka. Emergency responders first arrived at the scene on Feb. 21 in response to a call and discovered a 37-year-old woman dead in the room. Another woman was found unconscious and was rushed to a nearby hospital.

Five days later, on Feb. 26, first responders were once again called to the same room at the motel. This time, they found a 36-year-old female dead and another individual in critical condition. The surviving patient was transported to the hospital, while firefighters at the scene began showing symptoms of mild carbon monoxide exposure. Upon testing the air in the room, elevated levels of the poisonous gas were detected. Shockingly, there were no carbon monoxide detectors present in the room.

Authorities quickly mobilized various teams, including fire crews, police detectives, and technicians from Pacific Gas and Electric Company, to investigate the incident. All guests at the motel were evacuated as a precaution while the building was ventilated. City officials intervened by summoning the property owner and conducting inspections. It was determined that the motel could not remain open until necessary repairs and inspections were completed. The owner was issued a “First and Final Notice” to shut down the motel until the safety violations were rectified.

While the identities of the victims have not been disclosed, the incident has raised concerns about the maintenance of the motel. Carbon monoxide, a silent and deadly gas, can leak from malfunctioning heaters, water heaters, or poorly ventilated appliances. The absence of carbon monoxide detectors in the room highlights the importance of having these life-saving devices installed.

Authorities have not yet confirmed whether carbon monoxide exposure was a factor in the deaths. A spokesperson for the Eureka police stated that there was no evidence of an overdose at the scene. The investigation into the tragic deaths continues as authorities work to determine the exact cause of the fatalities.