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Coahuila Opens Homicide Probe After 'Papayita' Dies Following Suspected Workplace Prank

Prosecutors say they have video and witness statements but have not established that anyone intentionally tainted his drink.

Overview

  • Carlos Gurrola Arguijo, 47, died on September 18 at IMSS Clínica 71 after nearly three weeks hospitalized from an August 30 ingestion of a caustic liquid at HEB Senderos in Torreón.
  • The Coahuila Fiscalía in Región Laguna placed the case with its homicide unit, collected CCTV and testimonies, and reported indications the bottle may have previously held chemicals while noting no proof so far of deliberate poisoning.
  • Relatives allege coworkers poured degreaser into his Electrolit as a 'broma' within a pattern of workplace bullying involving thefts, threats and damage to his bicycle.
  • The family says a coworker discarded the bottle and that they were notified hours late and had to seek initial medical help themselves, potentially complicating forensic confirmation.
  • HEB said Gurrola worked for subcontractor Multiservicios Rocasa and pledged cooperation with authorities, as a vigil was held Friday in Ejido La Concha and relatives pressed their 'Justicia Para Carlos Gurrola Arguijo' campaign.