A devastating incident unfolded on February 4 in the Italian municipality of Porcari, in the province of Lucca, where a family of four of Albanian origin lost their lives after being poisoned by carbon monoxide inside their apartment, authorities and media reports confirm.
Emergency responders discovered the tragic scene in the family’s home after a relative became concerned when he could not reach them by phone and went to check on them. Upon entering the apartment, first responders found the four family members unconscious and lifeless.
Victims Identified
Italian authorities and local coverage have identified the victims as members of the Kola family, who had been living in Italy:
Arti Kola, 48
Jonida Kola, 43
Hajdar Kola, 22
Jessica Kola, 15
A fifth family member — the brother of the father — was also present and survived, but remains in critical condition after suffering severe carbon monoxide poisoning.
Cause and Emergency Response
Preliminary investigations suggest that the fatal poisoning was caused by a leak of carbon monoxide gas, likely originating from a faulty heating system or boiler equipment inside the home. Firefighters and technicians responded to the scene and began examining the installation to determine the exact source of the leak.
In addition to the family members, two responding officers who entered the apartment also suffered mild carbon monoxide exposure, though they are reported to be in stable condition and not in danger.
Community Shock and Ongoing Investigation
The tragedy has deeply affected both the local Italian community and Albanians abroad, as relatives and neighbors have offered their condolences. Authorities are continuing technical investigations to confirm the precise cause of the gas leak and whether safety standards or maintenance issues contributed to the deadly event.
Officials have reiterated the importance of regular maintenance of heating and gas systems to prevent similar tragedies, especially in cold weather months when equipment use is highest.