Litzy Flores, Yeferson Flores Ramos Died In Hoffman Estates Carbon Monoxide Accident

Wrongful Death - March 9, 2025

Hoffman Estates Officials Investigating Tragic Death of Teenagers Litzy Flores, 16, and Yeferson Flores Ramos, 17, Inside Locked Vehicle

Litzy Flores, Yeferson Flores Ramos Died In Hoffman Estates Carbon Monoxide Accident

HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS (March 9, 2024) – Two people identified as Litzy Flores and Yeferson Flores Ramos have tragically died in a suspected carbon monoxide accident in Hoffman Estates.

Hoffman Estates officials are saying that the incident took place around 12:30 AM on Sunday. Authorities got a report about two people who appeared to be unconscious inside of a locked vehicle.

First responders broke their way into the vehicle and began life-saving measures on Litzy Flores and Yeferson Flores Ramos. They were both taken to St. Alexius Medical Center in order to receive care.

Sadly, both were pronounced dead at the hospital. Their cause of death appears to be accidental carbon monoxide poisoning.

It remains unclear if any defect with the vehicle they were in may have contributed to the accident. A full investigation into the deaths of Litzy Flores and Yeferson Flores Ramos remains ongoing.

Liability for Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Accidents

Carbon monoxide is responsible for many serious injuries and deaths every year in the United States. People are particularly vulnerable while they are sleeping. According to JAMA, “Of 136 people whose deaths were classified as “unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning, not fire related,” 49 (36%) most likely were asleep when poisoned. Thirty-nine (49%) of 80 people whose deaths were identified as “residential fatalities” most likely were asleep vs 10 (18%) of 56 of those whose deaths were identified as occurring in or around motor vehicles.” There are many potential defects with a vehicle that could contribute to a carbon monoxide accident.

  • A vehicle may have cracks or holes in the exhaust system that could contribute to the release of carbon monoxide.
  • A vehicle may have a faulty or blocked exhaust  system that doesn’t properly vent carbon monoxide.
  • A vehicle may have defective door seals that allow gases to enter the cabin.
  • A vehicle may have faulty engine sensors that lead to higher emissions of carbon monoxide.

Vehicle manufacturers can be held liable for injuries and deaths due to carbon monoxide poisoning. Companies have a legal obligation to ensure that their vehicles are reasonably safe. This includes taking steps to ensure that vehicles do not become a potential source of carbon monoxide poisoning. If a vehicle has a design defect that contributes to a carbon monoxide poisoning accident, this could form the basis of a stripped product liability claim. There are a number of different vehicles and vehicle types that have reported issues with carbon monoxide leaks.

  • Ford Explorer (2011-2017)
  • Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor
  • Ford Escape (2020-2022)
  • Mazda 626 and MX-6 (1995)
  • Vehicles with Keyless Ignition Systems

Carbon monoxide poisoning accidents involving vehicles are often highly preventable. They may involve vehicles with design defects. It is critical that there is a thorough investigation after any vehicle may have contributed to a carbon monoxide poisoning. The vehicle should be carefully examined, and it should be determined if it was on any recall lists. Victims of carbon monoxide poisonings are protected by a number of laws. In particular, the family of any person who died in a carbon monoxide poisoning accident may be able to seek some measure of accountability and justice through a civil claim.

Investigating Hoffman Estates Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Accidents 

We at Horwitz Horwitz & Associates extend our deepest condolences to the families of Litzy Flores and Yeferson Flores Ramos. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to investigators. Many questions remain unanswered. Was this vehicle on any recall list? Did the vehicle have any defects with its exhaust system? Did poor ventilation within the vehicle’s engine compartment contribute to this accident?

Do you need more information about a vehicle carbon monoxide poisoning accident? Our team of highly experienced investigators and safety advocates can get to the bottom of what caused any accident. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that car companies are held accountable for their negligent actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into any particular incident, we are here to serve your needs. You can reach out to us anytime at (312) 564-4256.