Father, son die after inhaling toxic gas while cleaning well in Sowcarpet

A 55-year-old man and his 25-year-old son died in Chennai after inhaling toxic gas while cleaning a well at a house in Sowcarpet on Wednesday (August 26, 2026).

The deceased were identified as Ravi (55), and his son Ayyanar (25), natives of Tiruvannamalai who were living in Chennai. Police said Prashanth, a businessman and resident of Sowcarpet, had hired the duo to clean and remove silt from the well in their house.

Ravi first climbed down into the well using a rope ladder and began clearing the silt. He reportedly inhaled poisonous gas, lost consciousness and fell into the water. When Ayyanar saw his father collapse, he climbed down into the well to rescue him. He too was overcome by the gas and fell unconscious.

On receiving information, local residents and passers-by alerted the police and the 108 ambulance service. Fire and Rescue Services personnel arrived at the spot and entered the well wearing breathing apparatus and face masks. They brought both men out and rushed them to Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital.

However, doctors examined them and declared them dead. Their bodies were sent for post-mortem examination. Elephant Gate police have registered a case and are investigating.