A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in Parnaiba, located in the northeastern Brazilian state of Piaui, where a 17-year-old boy and a one-year-old baby died after consuming a New Year’s Day meal of fish and rice. The meal had been donated to the family as part of a charitable gesture.
The teenager, Manoel Leandro da Silva, was among the family members who ate the meal on January 1. Shortly after, he fell severely ill and was rushed to the hospital. Tragically, he passed away on the way to the hospital, while his family members continued to struggle with symptoms. In total, eight other relatives were hospitalized, including three of Manoel’s sisters, his three nieces, his stepfather, Francisco de Assis Pereira da Costa, and his young nephew, Igno Davi da Silva.
Manoel was the first to die from the suspected poisoning, but the situation worsened when Igno, the one-year-old nephew, also succumbed to the illness. Igno’s mother, Francisca Maria da Silva, remains hospitalized but is reported to be in stable condition.
According to hospital director Carlos Teixeira, the affected individuals showed similar symptoms, including low heart rates, intense sweating, and decreased consciousness levels. The medical team is still conducting tests to identify the source and nature of the poisoning. Authorities are investigating the possibility that the fish may have been contaminated with pesticides, but forensic experts are also testing blood, urine, and genetic material from the victims in search of conclusive evidence.
The meal was provided by a local couple known for their philanthropic work. They had donated fish and other food supplies to the community, and police confirmed that the donated fish had been consumed by the family. However, other recipients of the food did not report any issues. The couple has cooperated with the authorities, disclosing that they had also distributed approximately 30 kilos of fish to other families without incident.
Police chief Abimael Silva confirmed that the family had only consumed the donated fish, as they had already prepared their rice the night before. Investigations are ongoing, with authorities looking into the possibility that the fish may have been tainted with harmful substances, possibly pesticides or other toxins.
A forensics team is also examining the family’s home and taking food samples to determine if any toxic substances were present in the meal. As the investigation continues, Manoel’s family is left to grieve his untimely passing and prepare for his funeral arrangements.
This tragedy has left the local community in shock as they await answers regarding what caused this devastating loss.
