A 7-year-old Brazilian boy has died after playing in a pile of limestone powder beside a road.
Brazil’s Jornal Razão.reported that Arthur Emanuel Bitenourt died just minutes after a photo was taken showing him giving a thumbs up while half buried in the powder. A dump truck is seen just beyond the boy.
The boy’s family posted the photo as a tribute and a warning.
“This photo was the last and taken a few minutes before his tragic death, caused by inhaling limestone, while playing … The memories I will have of you, my dear child, will always be the best,” the boy’s uncle Romaldo Bitencourt wrote in the photo caption, The New York Post said.
The boy was rushed to the hospital, but could not be saved.
Limestone powder is often used in construction and agriculture. Brazil’s Technological Research Institute said it can cause breathing problems and advises protective gear when working with it.
Authorities have launched an investigation.
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[Featured image: Arthur Emanuel Bitancourt/Facebook]