Friends gassed to death in tragic accident after driver souped up car

Toxic fumes leaked into the engine because of alterations made to the bonnet
Francesca Gillett22 March 2017

Two young friends were gassed to death after toxic fumes seeped in from the engine of a souped-up car while they were sitting inside.

Nikki Willis, 23, and Thomas Putt, 20, died from carbon monoxide poisoning as they sat inside a Ford Fiesta which was leaking the toxic gas.

The alterations made to the souped-up car meant the engine was pumping the deadly gas at a level 1,000 times higher than normal as the pair sat with the engine running.

Work had been done on the exhaust and air vents had been cut into the bonnet in a bid to increase the car’s power, but the changes meant fatal fumes leaked into the car via a heater.

Shop worker Ms Willis and engineering apprentice Mr Putt, both from Essex, were found dead in the car in Chelmsford on December 5.

Tragic: Nikki Willis, 23, and Thomas Putt, 20, died from carbon monoxide poisoning.
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Following the inquest which today ruled their deaths were accidental, Essex Police are warning others who modify cars to be wary.

Souping-up is done when the owner wants to increase the car's horsepower and includes altering the exhaust system or getting larger cylinder heads.

Detective Inspector Rob Kirby said: "It is fair to say there was a unique series of events that came together to led to this tragic incident to take place.

"The combination of the modifications, the cold, still weather and the engine running whilst the car was stationary, all contributed to what happened that night.

"When modified, vehicles can produce significant quantities of carbon monoxide. This car was found to emit carbon monoxide levels 1,000 times higher than a factory standard identical vehicle.

"There are inherent dangers in modifying vehicles.

"Tom was not inexperienced, so even if you think you know what you are doing, this can still lead to unintended consequences.

"If you have carried out modifications on your vehicle, I urge you to satisfy yourself that these modifications are legal, and more importantly, safe, by consulting a qualified mechanic.

"Essex Police along with Tom and Nikki’s families want to ensure a tragic event like this can never happen again. Please have your vehicle checked."

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