Camilla Jessen
At least 25 people have died and several more have been hospitalized.
At least 25 people have died and several more have been hospitalized after consuming illegally produced vodka in Russia’s Leningrad region, authorities confirm.
The incident has drawn attention to the dangers of homemade alcohol and the lethal chemical methanol.
Mass Poisoning
The incident occurred on Friday, September 26, in the town of Slantsy, when a group of residents consumed homemade vodka with an alcohol content of 45% ABV (90 proof).
Local reports indicate that the liquor was contaminated with methanol, a toxic substance commonly found in windshield wiper fluid, antifreeze, and other household products.
Authorities confirmed that all the deceased had elevated methanol levels in their systems. Methanol poisoning can cause severe illness and death even in small amounts.
Initial Arrests and Suspects
Two individuals, Nikolai Boytsov, 78, and Olga Stepanova, 60, were detained in connection with the deaths.
As reported by People, investigators found empty glass bottles and plastic cans in Boytsov’s apartment, suggesting the scale of the operation.
Boytsov allegedly sold the vodka for about $1 per bottle, while Stepanova is accused of supplying him with the alcohol.
Authorities also allege that Boytsov poisoned his own wife, who is among the deceased.
Additional Arrests and Seizures
Eight more suspects have since been arrested for producing and distributing the dangerous alcohol.
One suspect has been preventively jailed for one month and 30 days, according to the Slantsevsky City Court of the Leningrad Region.
Authorities have seized more than 1,000 liters (264 gallons) of the contaminated vodka, but fear that more bottles may still be in circulation.
Dangers of Methanol
Methanol is extremely toxic and can be fatal in very small amounts.
According to Mount Sinai Hospital, just two tablespoons can kill a child, and 2 to 8 ounces can be deadly for an adult.
Symptoms of methanol poisoning include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Blindness or vision problems
- Dizziness and confusion
- Seizures
- Severe abdominal pain
- Death
Colorless and Odorless
Because methanol is colorless and odorless, it is often used by bootleggers as a cheap substitute in homemade alcohol, making it particularly dangerous.
Advice for the Public
Health authorities urge anyone who believes they have consumed methanol or suspect contaminated alcohol to seek immediate medical attention.
Travelers and locals are advised to:
- Buy alcohol only from licensed stores or bars
- Avoid homemade or unsealed bottled alcohol
- Be cautious with cocktails of unknown origin
Growing Trend of Homemade Alcohol
Experts say homemade alcohol distribution has increased in Russia due to rising retail prices and regional restrictions on alcohol sales.
These restrictions have inadvertently encouraged a black market, sometimes with deadly consequences.
Past Incidents
In June 2023, a tragic outbreak in western Russia claimed the lives of at least 30 people after they consumed contaminated homemade cider.
Then in 2024, five tourists — including one American — died in Laos from methanol poisoning after drinking locally produced alcohol.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate the source of the contaminated vodka and warn the public that more bottles may still be in circulation.
Officials are urging anyone in possession of homemade or suspicious alcohol to surrender it immediately to prevent further deaths.
“We are taking every step to ensure public safety and prevent additional fatalities,” said local law enforcement officials.
This article is made and published by Camilla Jessen, which may have used AI in the preparation
