Coșcalia tragedy: Cause of death unknown, investigation ongoing
The cause of death for the couple found in their car after the blizzard of November 26-27 in Coșcalia remains unknown. Authorities are currently investigating whether carbon monoxide poisoning or the harsh cold led to their deaths.
Lilian Carp, Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on National Security, Defense, and Public Order, provided an update on the ongoing investigation during a meeting with representatives from key agencies. A criminal case has been opened, suspecting negligence in the performance of official duties that may have contributed to the tragedy.
"We've agreed to await the final investigation results before taking action," Carp stated. "The final conclusions will determine appropriate measures regarding those responsible."
Both the General Prosecutor's Office and the General Inspectorate of Police continue their investigation to establish all the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
"The police investigation is now under the supervision of the Prosecutor's Office," explained Viorel Cernăuțeanu, head of the General Inspectorate of Police. "All necessary procedures, including expert analysis, are underway to ensure a comprehensive investigation."
Deputy head of the General Prosecutor's Office, Igor Demciucin, emphasised the ongoing nature of the investigation. "It's premature to discuss details at this stage. We have 45 days, according to the law, to complete our investigation."
The State Road Administration acknowledged the lack of necessary equipment to clear cars from hard-to-reach areas with significant snowfall. Director Sergiu Bejan explained that while workers cleared three buses with children on the same road, the deceased couple's location was farther down the uncleaned section.
"Our current equipment capabilities are limited in such situations," Bejan admitted. "For snowdrifts exceeding one and a half metres, we urgently need more specialised equipment to effectively respond."
Alexandru Oprea, head of the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations, declined to answer questions from journalists regarding the tragedy.
"We will provide answers to the questions the commission poses to us," Oprea stated. "All invited institutions have prepared reports for their review."
The tragedy occurred during the blizzard on the night of November 26-27. Despite repeated calls from both the victims and their relatives to the 112 emergency service, no help arrived in time. The couple was tragically discovered by a passerby the next morning.
Following the incident, Prime Minister Dorin Recean requested the resignation of 112 Service head Liviu Oboroc, citing the service's failure to fulfil its duties. Oboroc has denied the accusations.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
