A recent toxicology examination of a couple who tragically died in a scorching hot bath following their daughter’s birthday celebration has unveiled new details surrounding the incident.
The deceased individuals, military officer Jeferson Luiz Sagaz, 37, and Ana Carolina Silva, 41, who owned a nail salon, were discovered lifeless inside a motel room in Sao Jose, Brazil, on August 11.
The pair had commemorated their four-year-old daughter’s birthday at a food park earlier in the day before proceeding to a nightclub.
Reports indicate that after dropping off their child at Jeferson’s sister’s residence, they checked into the Dallas Motel just after midnight. Their last sighting was reported around 11:30 pm.
Concerns arose when the couple did not retrieve their daughter the following day, leading to a distressing revelation by authorities.
Subsequently found deceased in the motel room bathtub with no apparent injuries, the water temperature had soared to 50C, with a space heater also set to high.
A toxicology report disclosed the presence of cocaine and significantly elevated blood alcohol levels in both parents. Investigators, who scrutinized CCTV footage and the couple’s vehicle, concluded that they had fainted in the scalding water-filled bath.
Chief Medical Examiner Andressa Boer Fronza stated, “The cause of death for both individuals was exogenous poisoning, exacerbating heatstroke with severe dehydration, thermal collapse, resulting in organ failure and fatality.”
The report highlighted that the combination of substances, alcohol, and extreme heat heightened their susceptibility. Sixteen forensic evaluations conducted by the Civil Police eliminated potential causes of death such as electric shock, drowning, carbon monoxide poisoning, or foul play.
Expressing concerns, Ana’s family suspected that she may have involuntarily ingested drugs. In a heartfelt statement to the media, they affirmed her non-involvement in drug use and raised apprehensions regarding possible forced ingestion or poisoning.
The family emphasized their determination to uphold Ana’s reputation and integrity while seeking a thorough, transparent, and impartial inquiry into the circumstances.
Following the police’s closure of the case, the family emphasized their commitment to unveiling the truth and ensuring justice for Ana.
During a press briefing, chief inspector Felipe Simao remarked that the couple led an active social life but were not drug users. He noted the absence of a cocaine habit and any known history of violence.
Chief Simao suggested that their physical constitution may have been incompatible with cocaine use, particularly when combined with alcohol.
Known for being devoted parents and sociable, Jefferson and Ana Carolina had shared nearly two decades together. Their daughter, now orphaned due to the tragic turn of events at her birthday celebration, is under the care of family members.