An investigation has started in Larnaca, Cyprus. A 78-year-old man died from poisoning. Four other people are in the hospital with serious symptoms. These include his wife and sister.
Police found a chemical called GBL in a water cooler. This happened at the man's house. The incident became known on Saturday, January 3rd. It has made people in the community very worried.
The elderly man was found not responding on Saturday morning. Doctors tried to help him at Larnaca General Hospital. However, he died that evening. His wife was already in the hospital from the day before.
On Sunday, three more people became sick. They drank from the man's house. Forensic tests found GBL in the water cooler. This cooler was likely the source of the poison.
GBL is an industrial chemical. It can turn into GHB in the body. GHB is a strong drug that can be very dangerous.
The four sick people are getting treatment. They are serious but stable. One person is now breathing without help. This is a good sign.
An autopsy was done on the dead man. It will help doctors understand how he died. Cyprus Police are investigating carefully. They are looking for clues at the scene.
Police are also talking to family members. They want to know how the chemical got into the water. They are considering all possibilities. More test results are expected soon.