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8 Deaths In Home Bring Scrutiny Of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

PRINCESS ANNE, Md. (WJZ)--Authorities are continuing to investigate the death of eight family members due to carbon monoxide poisoning on Maryland's Eastern Shore.

Alex DeMetrick has the details on the illegal theft of electricity that set this tragedy in motion.

They had been dead for days when Rodney Todd and the bodies of his seven children were found in a rental home in Princess Anne Monday afternoon, victims of carbon monoxide poisoning.

It all started with the ping of an electric smart meter on March 25th.

"Why was this meter exhibiting electric usage? Found that it had been re-installed at another house, re-installed illegally, and was using electricity illegally," said Matt Likovich, Delmarva Power.

So Delmarva technicians removed the meter and cut off power. It was never a matter of a bill not being paid. Delmarva says it was also a safety issue. That's when Rodney Todd apparently made the mistake of his life, in an effort to keep his children warm during a late March cold snap.

Police believe he turned to a gasoline powered portable generator and against all warnings, used it inside the home.

"Yeah he made probably a crazy mistake by putting a generator inside the house, but when you think about your kids in the cold, all you think about is getting them warm," said a family friend.

These deaths are now prompting state legislation on two possible fronts.

A law expanding use of carbon monoxide detectors.

"These devices, find their way into rental properties. New construction's there, hotels are along the way, but we're going to be looking at how we can retrofit rental properties with these devices," said Sen. Jim Mathias.

Princess Anne is in State Senator Jim Mathias's district. He and others are seeking donations for what must come next.

"Make a donation for the final arrangements for these children...we're just deeply saddened on the eastern shore for the loss of these children and their father," Mathias said.

Records show Rodney Todd did receive assistance with utility bills in the past, but had not applied for help this year.

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