4 Dead After Eating Toxic Death Cap Mushrooms in California

Surge in poisonings linked to 'super bloom' of deadly fungi after heavy rains

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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California is facing a surge in deaths and severe illnesses linked to the highly toxic death cap mushroom. As of February 6, 2026, four people have died and three others have required life-saving liver transplants after consuming the poisonous fungi, according to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). This outbreak, fueled by a rainy winter and warm temperatures, is significantly larger than typical years, which usually see between two and five cases of poisoning.

Why it matters

The death cap mushroom (Amanita phalloides) is one of the most poisonous mushrooms in the world, containing amatoxins that are responsible for 90% of fatal mushroom poisonings globally. Even a small amount can be fatal, and the mushrooms are easily mistaken for safe, edible varieties, posing a serious public health risk. The CDPH has also observed a disproportionate number of cases among Spanish, Mixteco, and Mandarin Chinese speakers, highlighting the need for culturally sensitive outreach.

The details

Experts are describing the current situation as a 'super bloom' of death caps, with the mushrooms proliferating in city parks and forests, often found under oak trees. The recent weather conditions have created an ideal environment for their growth, leading to a dramatic increase in exposure. Initial symptoms of death cap poisoning can appear within 24 hours of ingestion, including stomach cramping, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. However, these symptoms can deceptively subside within a day, leading individuals to believe they are recovering, when in fact serious and potentially fatal liver damage can develop within 2 to 3 days. Rapid medical attention is crucial.

  • As of February 6, 2026, four people have died and three others have required life-saving liver transplants.
  • This outbreak is significantly larger than typical years, which usually see between two and five cases of poisoning.

The players

California Department of Public Health (CDPH)

The state health department that has reported the surge in death cap mushroom poisonings and related deaths and illnesses.

Dr. Craig Smollin

Medical director for the San Francisco Division of the California Poison Control System, who noted the unusual magnitude of the problem, stating that almost 40 cases is 'very unusual.'

Laura Marcelino

A woman who, along with her husband, gathered mushrooms in Northern California that resembled varieties they were familiar with from Oaxaca, Mexico, leading to severe illness and the need for a liver transplant for her husband.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

The takeaway

This case highlights the urgent need for public education and awareness around the dangers of foraging for wild mushrooms, especially in the wake of environmental conditions that can lead to a 'super bloom' of highly toxic varieties like the death cap. Avoiding mushroom foraging altogether is the safest course of action, as even experienced foragers can mistake deadly mushrooms for edible ones.