On January 24, 2025 at approximately 2:00 p.m., the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) attended to a medic call in the 600 block of Nassau Street South for the report of a vehicle stuck in the snowbank. An 84-year old male, a 67-year-old male and a dog were located in the vehicle and found unconscious due to exhaust fumes entering the passenger cabin.
At approximately 2:14 p.m., the Winnipeg Police Service was notified of the incident by WFPS and initiated an investigation. West District General Patrol officers arrived and confirmed that the dog was deceased, while both males were transported to hospital in critical condition. The 84-year-old later succumbed to his injuries, and the 67-year-old remains in hospital in critical condition. The deaths are believed to have resulted from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by a snow-blocked exhaust pipe and are not considered suspicious.
The Winnipeg Police Service reminds the public to take precautions when running vehicles stuck in snow or warming up in confined spaces such as garages. If running the engine, ensure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide build-up. Avoid sitting in an idling vehicle for long periods without proper ventilation. Stay safe and take precautions in these situations.