The Ga-Rankuwa community, north of Pretoria, is mourning the heartbreaking loss of five young boys who reportedly died from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning after sleeping in a room where burning coals had been left overnight.
According to reports, the tragic incident happened on the night of 5 July 2026 during the bitterly cold winter weather. The boys are said to have gathered in one room to sleep and lit a **mbaula**—a metal brazier commonly used to burn charcoal or coal—to keep warm.
It is believed the room was closed to prevent the cold air from entering. However, with little or no ventilation, the burning coals are believed to have produced carbon monoxide, a highly poisonous gas that is colourless, odourless, and impossible to detect without specialised equipment.
The following morning, a parent reportedly went to wake the boys and made the devastating discovery that all five had died in their sleep.
The victims have been identified as:
* Neo Kgomontsho
* Bokang Makgatho
* Neo Matjane, also known as “Slime Bouyy’o”
* Lefa Matjane
* Tshwarelo Matjane
Reports indicate that some of the boys were related and may have been brothers or cousins, making the tragedy even more devastating for their families.
Police have reportedly opened an inquest docket to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the deaths. At this stage, there is no indication of foul play, and the incident is believed to have been a tragic accident. Authorities are expected to continue their investigation before confirming the official cause of death.
Carbon monoxide poisoning remains one of the hidden dangers during winter, especially when charcoal, coal, wood, or gas-burning appliances are used indoors without proper ventilation. Because the gas has no smell, colour, or taste, victims often do not realise they are being poisoned. Exposure can cause headaches, dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, and eventually unconsciousness and death if fresh air is not available.
Safety experts continue to warn the public never to sleep in enclosed spaces with burning charcoal or coal heaters. Heating devices should only be used in well-ventilated areas, and they should always be extinguished before going to bed. Carbon monoxide detectors can also help alert households to dangerous gas levels where available.
The tragedy has left residents of Ga-Rankuwa in shock, with many expressing their grief and support for the affected families. Messages of condolence have poured in from community members and social media users, who have described the incident as a painful reminder of the dangers associated with indoor heating during winter.
As investigations continue, this heartbreaking incident serves as an important warning for households across South Africa to take extra precautions when trying to stay warm during the cold season.
Our deepest condolences go to the families, friends, classmates, and everyone affected by the tragic loss of these five young boys. May their souls rest in peace.
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