 |
Sizwe KupeloBuried alive
Country:
 South Africa |
Content:
- The Extraordinary Case of Sizwe Kupelo: Buried Alive and Resurrected
- Buried Alive in Error
- Awakening in the Mortuary
- Morgue Workers Flee and Return
- Investigation and Aftermath
- Public Warning
- Kupelo's Renewed Life
The Extraordinary Case of Sizwe Kupelo: Buried Alive and Resurrected
Sizwe Kupelo, a 53-year-old South African man, experienced an extraordinary ordeal in 2011 that left him terrified and outraged.
Buried Alive in Error
After suffering an asthma attack, Kupelo's relatives mistakenly declared him dead and arranged for his funeral. He was placed in a plastic bag and driven to the morgue in Libode, South Africa. The employees of the private funeral home failed to verify his condition, as did his family.
Awakening in the Mortuary
Hours later, Kupelo regained consciousness in the morgue. Disoriented and frightened, he felt cold and discomfort. He began to shout and demand to be let out.
Morgue Workers Flee and Return
The morgue attendants, accustomed to dealing with deceased individuals, fled the premises in terror. However, they eventually returned and found Kupelo alive and well, albeit shivering. An ambulance was called, and he was transported to the hospital.
Investigation and Aftermath
The incident sparked an investigation into how Kupelo could have been declared dead without medical or police examination. He was rightfully furious at the lack of care and the potential harm he had endured from the hypothermia he experienced in the morgue.
Public Warning
Local authorities issued a warning to residents, urging them to obtain official confirmation of death before using private funeral companies. Only doctors, police officers, or emergency responders are authorized to pronounce someone deceased.
Kupelo's Renewed Life
Sizwe Kupelo continued his life, but the memory of his burial alive haunts him. It is likely that he now ensures his family understands the necessary precautions in case of a similar medical emergency.
