This week, four children aged seven to 17, were killed in Texas after the toxic gas phosphine reacted with water and the pesticide Aluminum Phosphide. Six others were also hospitalized, some in critical condition. Investigators believe that the phosphine gas was released when the pesticide Aluminum Phosphide was used as a fumigant to treat mice in the Amarillo home.

A visitor to the house found everyone sick and called 911.

Our hearts are breaking for the parents of the four siblings- Felipe Balderas, seven; Johnnie Balderas, nine; Josue Balderas, 11 and Yasmeen Balderas, 17.

The home where the release of poisonous gas caused the deaths of four children. Six others were hospitalized following the incidentCrews responded to the 5 a.m. call for help but one child died at the scene, while the other three other siblings died at a hospital. Thankfully, four other children from the home and their father are in stable condition. Currently, their mother is in serious condition and is being treated at a hospital in Lubbock.

Responders worked throughout the day to clear the area but the home is still sealed off.

Responders initially thought carbon monoxide poisoning was to blame before investigators determined it was Aluminum Phosphide that caused the deaths

Phosphine gas was likely released when someone tried to wash away Aluminum Phospide that had been sprayed under the home. The release killed Yasmeen Baleras, pictured, and three of her siblings

Source: Channel 3 news