At least 25 people have died in Russia’s Leningrad Oblast from methanol poisoning, with six fatalities in Wołosowo alone.
Six deaths in Wołosowo
Between 10 and 17 September, six people died in part of the Leningrad Oblast, with high methanol levels found in their blood. Most victims lived on adjacent streets in Wołosowo, and their bodies were discovered in their homes.
19 deaths in Słaniecki District
The day before, 19 people died in the Słaniecki District after consuming homemade moonshine produced by a local resident and distributed by a 78-year-old retiree. Authorities suspect improper distillation led to lethal methanol concentrations.
Arrest in Wołosowo case
A criminal investigation has been launched into the Wołosowo deaths, with a 63-year-old man arrested for allegedly selling alcohol substitutes. Police found alcohol containers in his home, and reports suggest his wife was among the victims.