Russian journalist's death in Tashkent linked to carbon monoxide exposure

Traces of carboxyhemoglobin and carbon monoxide were found in the blood of Russian journalist Inessa Papernaya, who passed away in Tashkent’s "Karaman Palace" hotel on October 20, as reported by RIA Novosti, citing Uzbekistan's General Prosecutor’s Office.

The preliminary forensic examination also detected 59% carboxyhemoglobin—a combination of hemoglobin and carbon monoxide—in her blood, along with 1.36% ethyl alcohol and traces of hydrogen sulfide.

Similar substances were present in the blood and internal organs of her companion, Maxim Radchenko.

Carboxyhemoglobin forms when carbon monoxide is inhaled in significant amounts, which can be fatal as it prevents the blood from carrying sufficient oxygen. The presence of these substances has led investigators to suspect carbon monoxide poisoning.

The deaths of both Papernaya and Radchenko, along with a third individual, U.K., an Uzbek citizen, found in a nearby hotel room, are under ongoing investigation. Preliminary medical reports suggested that all three deaths were the result of poisoning of an unknown cause. Authorities have since launched a criminal case under Article 186, Part 4, Clause "a" of the Uzbek Criminal Code. Further forensic investigations and inquiries are underway.