A toxic chemical has been found in the bodies of 21 South African teens who died under mysterious circumstances last month.
Methanol, a toxic form of alcohol often used as an industrial solvent, was found in the bodies of all of the victims of a tragic incident at the Enyobeni Tavern in the Scenery Park Township of East London, South Africa. Methanol poisoning is often the result of ingesting contaminated alcoholic drinks – the 12 girls and nine boys who were killed were reportedly out drinking to celebrate the end of their June exams.
“Methanol has been detected in all the 21 individuals that were there, however there is still progressive analysis of the quantitative levels of methanol and whether it could have been the final cause of death,” Dr. Litha Matiwane, provincial deputy director for clinical services in the Eastern Cape, told reporters at a press conference on Tuesday.
Dr. Matiwane reported that authorities are waiting on further results from a lab in Cape Town before drawing definite conclusions.
While trace amounts of methanol are not dangerous, the substance is extremely toxic in higher concentrations. Alcohol poisoning and the intake of carbon monoxide had been ruled out by investigators as possible causes of death.
The previously unexplained tragedy has garnered national attention in South Africa, where binge drinking culture often has deadly consequences. Thousands attended the shared funeral of the teens, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who delivered their eulogy.
“Our hearts are broken. We have lost our children. In one night, here in Scenery Park, 21 bright lives were snuffed out,” he said.
The owner of the bar as well as two employees have been arrested for serving alcohol to minors, and are currently out on bail. Further charges may come if the investigation firmly establishes a cause of death and can demonstrate culpability on the part of the owner or the staff.