POLICE have confirmed that a man found dead inside a parked car in George Town earlier this week succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning, bringing a tragic conclusion to an investigation that initially raised concerns among members of the public.
The finding emerged following a post-mortem examination conducted at the Forensic Department of Hospital Pulau Pinang, which established that the 37-year-old local man's death was caused by exposure to the toxic gas.
Northeast District Deputy Police Chief Superintendent Lee Swee Sake said forensic examinations also indicated that the victim had likely died several days before his body was discovered.
"The victim is also believed to have died approximately five days before his body was found yesterday.
"There were no elements of crime detected. The case has been classified as a sudden death and a Sudden Death Report has been opened for further investigation," he said when contacted by Bernama.
Investigators believe the victim, an engineer by profession, may have fallen asleep inside the vehicle while its engine was still running, resulting in prolonged exposure to carbon monoxide fumes.
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless and highly poisonous gas that can accumulate in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces, often without warning signs, making it particularly dangerous to vehicle occupants.
The victim's body was discovered at about 11.47am on Friday inside a car parked outside an ice cream shop along Jalan Sungai Dua.
Police said the man, who was from Ayer Itam, was found neatly dressed and lying in the driver's seat of the vehicle, which belonged to his wife and was locked from the inside.
The circumstances initially prompted an investigation to determine whether criminal elements were involved. However, forensic findings and police inquiries subsequently ruled out foul play.
The case has once again highlighted the potentially fatal dangers associated with remaining inside a stationary vehicle with the engine running for prolonged periods, particularly in confined environments where toxic gases can accumulate unnoticed.
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and ensure adequate ventilation when occupying vehicles for extended periods, warning that carbon monoxide poisoning can occur rapidly and often without any detectable smell or visible signs of danger.
Police said investigations under the Sudden Death Report remain ongoing, although all evidence gathered thus far points to an accidental death caused by carbon monoxide exposure. - May 30, 2026
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