A toxic gas leak at a mine in Nigeria has killed 37 people and left 26 injured.
Poisonous lead, sulfur, and carbon monoxide were discharged into the shaft, overwhelming nearly 40 miners working underground. Victims reportedly fell ill early Tuesday morning without realizing they were breathing in deadly fumes.
A preliminary investigation confirmed a sudden discharge of lead oxide and associated gases, which are highly toxic in confined or poorly ventilated environments.
The Nigerian government has closed the mining site, and an investigation into the leak is ongoing. The circumstances surrounding the mining operation, including its legality, are under review as Nigeria grapples with illegal mining activities.