The Rivers State Police Command has launched an investigation into the tragic death of a family of six in Ogale community, Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State, allegedly caused by inhalation of generator fumes.

The victims, a couple and their four children, were reportedly found dead on Sunday after neighbours raised the alarm. It was gathered that the generator had been running overnight and into Sunday morning.

A community source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the family had been preparing to return to Port Harcourt after the holidays before the tragedy struck.

“They were found dead in various positions. It is a very unfortunate incident, and we are calling on the police to do a proper investigation,” the source said.

The incident was first brought to public attention by a Facebook user, Destiny John, who described the tragedy as “a black Sunday,” noting that all six family members died on the spot.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Rivers State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, said the generator was allegedly kept inside the living room due to fear of theft.

“Yes, I can confirm the incident. From the information I got, the generator was inside the living room because they were afraid it would be stolen. Investigation is ongoing,” she said.

The police have since commenced an investigation to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.