Boy hospitalized with suspected poisoning after eating cake dies in RJ

The 11-year-old boy who was hospitalized with suspected poisoning after eating a cake and feeling ill, in Rio de Janeiro, died on Thursday night (11). The information was confirmed by the management of Ricardo Cruz State Hospital.

The boy, identified as Arthur de Mello da Silva, was in a coma, but, according to his family, his health was stable. In a statement, the hospital management, through the Rio de Janeiro Health Department, lamented the death and expressed solidarity with the family.

"The management of the Ricardo Cruz State Hospital (HerCruz) informs that, despite all the dedication of the medical and multidisciplinary team, unfortunately the boy Arthur de Mello da Silva died last night. The management of the unit deeply regrets Arthur's death, sympathizes with the family and is available for any clarifications", says the note.

Family suspects poisoning
The suspicion of poisoning was raised by the family who confirmed the instability of the child's health after eating the candy.

"The only thing we know he ate before he started feeling sick was this cake, right? So, the only thing he ate was this chocolate cake", said Mayara Mello, the boy's cousin.

According to family members, characteristics compatible with the presence of pellets in the child's body were identified. To date, the official medical report has not been released and, therefore, there is no way to confirm the cause of death.

Investigations
The Rio de Janeiro Police reported that the case was forwarded to the Baixada Fluminense Homicide Police Station. Furthermore, the corporation said that no line of investigation has been ruled out.

The police unit has already interviewed witnesses and is awaiting the completion of the medical, toxicological and expert reports already requested.

*Under the supervision of Carolina Figueiredo

Source: CNN