ST. LOUIS — An infant has died after a possible carbon monoxide poisoning Friday morning, according to police. Three other people were urgently taken to the hospital for suspected poisoning as well.
Fire and police officials said the diagnosis is suspected and not confirmed at this time.
The people were found in a vehicle after firefighters responded to the call for a wellness check on Lincoln Avenue in the Jeff-Vander-Lou neighborhood in north St. Louis.
When first responders arrived on the scene, they reported a "strong odor of exhaust" when they opened the doors of the vehicle, Fire Captain Garon Mosby said.
The vehicle's occupants appeared unresponsive, officials said.
The infant was taken to a hospital in critical condition and later died. A 28-year-old woman, an 8-year-old girl, and a 9-year-old girl were in serious condition, according to Mosby.
Mosby said a neighbor reported the incident before leaving for work Friday morning.
Keith Barrett, a lieutenant with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, said the vehicle was being investigated by the bomb and arson unit to see if there are any vehicle defects.
He said special detectives are also investigating the incident since children are involved.
No other details about the status of the woman or two older children have been reported at this time.
Barrett encouraged people to seek out warming centers in freezing temperatures instead of sleeping in vehicles. You can find a list of warming centers in the St. Louis area through United Way or on the city's website.