A farming household in Donghai County, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, experienced a devastating family tragedy after using a pesticide purchased at a local market for grain protection. The incident, which occurred on July 13, has resulted in one death and three hospitalizations, with authorities now investigating the illegal sale of the highly toxic substance.

According to the head of the household, surnamed Ge, his wife had their child buy an insecticide from a market stall to protect their wheat from pests. Upon opening the package, she discovered it contained aluminum phosphide. Unaware of the compound's dangerous property of producing highly toxic phosphine gas when it comes into contact with moisture, she proceeded with its use, leading to the poisoning of their three children and herself.

The family's youngest daughter, referred to by the pseudonym Momo, was in critical condition and tragically passed away on July 18 after rescue efforts failed. Their eldest daughter remains hospitalized, with the father stating that her treatment has already cost between 300,000 and 400,000 RMB. Police have intervened in the case, and a forensic certificate issued by the Donghai County Public Security Bureau confirmed that Momo died from phosphine gas poisoning.

The village committee has verified the incident and confirmed that individuals suspected of selling aluminum phosphide have been detained by police. Aluminum phosphide is classified as a highly toxic pesticide, and since March 1, 2025, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs has explicitly prohibited its retail sale to individual members of the public. The case has raised serious concerns about the enforcement of pesticide sales regulations and the potential dangers posed to rural households by readily available toxic substances.