In a devastating incident that has left a community in shock, a Greenwood Park couple and their friend, are believed to have succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning.
The lifeless bodies of Kyle Richards, his wife Taylene Richards, and their friend Moosa, all in their 20s, were discovered on Monday in Rosary Place.
Kyle and Taylene Richards’ two children, both under the age of five, were not affected as they had spent the weekend with their grandparents.
It is believed that the three people and the dog had died from carbon monoxide poisoning from the generator that had been running in their home.
Concerned residents who had not heard from the couple for a few days, raised the alarm.
Retired head of eThekwini Metro Police, Steve Middleton, who is related to Kyle said that a security company had been alerted, leading to the tragic discovery of the three decomposing bodies.
The couple’s children had spent the weekend at Taylene’s mother’s home.
“It is a complete tragedy and really unexpected. We are devastated and really feel for their children,” said Mr Middleton.
Initial investigations show that the area had experienced a prolonged electrical outage and a generator was found on the property.
Marshall Security’s Tyron Powell shared details of the emergency response initiated after a WhatsApp message raised concerns about the well-being of the Richards family.
Mr Powell recounted the tragic scene that unfolded during the welfare check.
“What began as a welfare check quickly escalated into a tragic scene. Officers discovered Moosa’s lifeless body on the living room couch, and further exploration of the home revealed the other victims in the master bedroom, along with a lifeless puppy,” he said.
The Fire Department, which conducted a thorough examination of the premises, identified a generator within the home as the likely source of carbon monoxide poisoning,.
Police have opened an inquest docket.
