Nashville Investigates Suspected Carbon Monoxide Death as Unsafe Heating Rises

Authorities warn of increasing carbon monoxide poisoning cases amid power outages following winter storms.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 7:47pm

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Metro Nashville Police are investigating a suspected carbon monoxide death as health facilities report a rise in poisoning cases. The incidents are linked to people using unsafe heating methods like generators, gas stoves, and grills to stay warm during power outages caused by recent winter storms. Experts warn that carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, putting children at high risk, and urge residents to take safety precautions.

Why it matters

Carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal, and the increase in cases highlights the dangers people face when trying to heat their homes during power outages. This issue disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations, including non-English speakers, and underscores the need for greater public awareness and safety measures.

The details

Multiple health facilities in Nashville, including Vanderbilt Medical Center, Ascension Saint Thomas, and Siloam Health, have reported treating more carbon monoxide poisoning cases since the recent winter storm hit the area. Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt said they've treated 48 children. The incidents are linked to people using unsafe heating methods like generators, gas stoves, and grills to stay warm during power outages.

  • The recent winter storm hit the Nashville area.
  • Metro Nashville Police are currently investigating a suspected carbon monoxide death.

The players

Metro Nashville Police

The local law enforcement agency investigating a suspected carbon monoxide death.

Vanderbilt Medical Center

A major healthcare facility in Nashville that has treated an increased number of carbon monoxide poisoning cases.

Ascension Saint Thomas

A healthcare system in Nashville that has treated more carbon monoxide poisoning cases since the winter storm.

Siloam Health

A health organization in Nashville that serves many non-English speaking patients and is urging residents to ensure their neighbors understand carbon monoxide safety guidelines.

Karen Babb

A Nashville resident who has been without power for five days and is taking precautions to stay warm safely.

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What they’re saying

“We have our little set up right here with the tent, the fire, close to the door.”

— Karen Babb, Nashville Resident

“Here, open up all the doors, the windows, let fresh air in, and then let's start warming it back up again. And we try to do that right before we go to sleep and then in the morning when we wake up.”

— Karen Babb, Nashville Resident

“They're having to use their stoves or gas stoves, gas appliances, so gas stoves, gas fireplaces, gas ovens, and some people are even bringing in grills. So all of that, the gas and the kerosene, can release carbon monoxide.”

— Andrea Valadez, Siloam Health

What’s next

Authorities are urging residents to be vigilant about carbon monoxide safety and to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms of poisoning. Siloam Health is also working to ensure non-English speaking community members understand the risks and proper precautions.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the critical need for public education and safety measures around carbon monoxide poisoning, especially during power outages when people may resort to unsafe heating methods. It underscores the disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations and the importance of community-based outreach to prevent further tragedies.