By Elisavet Georgiou
Police in Larnaca are investigating an unprecedented case that has left one man dead and four others hospitalized after they all consumed water from the same household water cooler within a 24-hour period. Authorities say the outcome of laboratory tests from the State Chemical Laboratory will be decisive in determining what caused the incident and whether criminal actions were involved.
At the center of the investigation is the death of a 78-year-old man, whose passing initially appeared to be from natural causes due to his existing medical conditions. That assessment changed rapidly after several relatives and neighbors developed similar symptoms shortly afterward, prompting a major police response and the sealing off of the residence.
Health status of those affected
One elderly man, a neighbor of the couple, remains in critical condition and is being treated in the Intensive Care Unit, where he is intubated. Doctors have indicated that it is too early to draw firm conclusions about his prognosis. Two additional patients, a sister and a niece of the deceased, are reported to be in stable condition and are receiving care in a general ward at Larnaca General Hospital after experiencing severe discomfort.
Focus on possible contamination
Investigators are examining the possibility that a toxic substance, potentially in liquid form, may have been introduced into the water cooler. Police have stressed that this remains only one of several working theories and that confirmation depends on scientific analysis currently underway.
Separate drug case involving the victim’s son
As part of the broader inquiry, the Drug Law Enforcement Unit has become involved due to the background of the couple’s son, who is known to police. He was arrested earlier in the week in an unrelated case involving alleged possession and trafficking of illegal drugs. He remains in custody under court order until 12 January, when his trial is scheduled to begin. Authorities have clarified that, at this stage, there is no established link between his arrest and the suspected poisoning case.
How events unfolded
According to police findings so far, the incident began last Saturday when the 73-year-old wife reportedly replaced the water bottle in the household cooler. She soon felt unwell and was taken to hospital. Several hours later, her husband was discovered dead at the home by a family member.
The situation escalated the following day during a traditional condolence gathering, when visitors consumed coffee and water from the same cooler. Three more people soon exhibited similar symptoms and were rushed to hospital, triggering alarm and shifting the investigation toward potential contamination.
A post-mortem examination on the deceased is expected to take place later today. Police are also planning further interviews and statements as they await laboratory findings that will shape the next steps of the investigation. Authorities describe the coming hours as critical both for determining responsibility and for monitoring the condition of those still receiving medical care.
