Eleven Dead Ten Critical After Methanol Poisoning From Homemade Alcohol In Barranquilla Colombia

At least 11 people have died and 10 remain in critical condition in Barranquilla, Colombia, after consuming a homemade alcoholic beverage known as 'cochoco,' which contains a toxic mix of ethyl alcohol, methanol, and other substances. The drink, popular among the homeless, is cheaply sold in plastic bottles and is believed to have been produced in unsanitary conditions, with police investigating distribution claims involving a man on a motorcycle. Victims were admitted to hospitals in very critical condition requiring advanced resuscitation and intensive care, with methanol poisoning presenting either immediate or delayed symptoms, complicating early detection. Methanol, a highly toxic industrial solvent, causes severe damage to the central nervous system and can be fatal, as confirmed by toxicologists and medical officials leading the response. This incident follows a similar deadly methanol poisoning outbreak in Colombia in late 2022, highlighting ongoing public health risks associated with unregulated homemade alcohol. Authorities continue investigations to prevent further tragedies and raise awareness about the dangers of consuming such illicit beverages.