A devastating incident occurred at Saguaro Lake in Mesa over the weekend, resulting in the tragic loss of three lives due to carbon monoxide poisoning. The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office has identified the victims as 35-year-old Amanda Elderkin, 41-year-old Jason Elderkin, and 57-year-old Julieanne Afman. Julieanne Afman was Amanda’s mother, and Jason was Amanda’s husband.
The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon, around 3 p.m., when deputies responded to a distress call from a marina reporting three unresponsive people inside a houseboat. Upon investigation, authorities discovered a generator running inside the boat, which is suspected to be the source of the carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a deadly, odorless, tasteless, and colorless gas that can be emitted from appliances such as stoves, furnaces, and generators.
The victims were found in a confined space with the generator running, a scenario that can quickly lead to dangerous levels of the gas accumulating in the air. The sheriff’s office is reminding the public of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning, particularly when using gas-powered generators, especially in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces. Carbon monoxide is often undetectable without specialized equipment, and its effects can be fatal if exposure is not avoided or treated immediately.
The investigation is ongoing, and the sheriff’s office is working to determine whether there were any contributing factors or mistakes in the setup of the generator that led to the tragic incident. Although the case does not appear to involve any foul play, investigators will continue to examine all aspects of the incident to ensure a complete understanding of what transpired on that fateful day.
As the community mourns the loss of Amanda, Jason, and Julieanne, it is essential to remember the importance of carbon monoxide safety. By taking simple precautions, such as ensuring proper ventilation and regularly inspecting gas-powered equipment, we can prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office extends its condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims. As the investigation continues, the office will provide updates and reminders on carbon monoxide safety to ensure that our community remains safe and informed.