Authorities investigating the mysterious deaths of two 25-year-old hunters say toxicology tests have uncovered a startling discovery: dangerous substances were found in the men’s food packs, raising new questions about what truly led to their demise.
Initially, officials believed the pair were killed instantly by a lightning strike during a hunting trip in the remote wilderness. But investigators now confirm that toxic compounds were detected in preserved meals and snacks recovered from their backpacks, suggesting the men were already in critical condition before the storm hit.
“This changes the timeline entirely,” a source close to the case told reporters. “The lightning may not have been the sole cause of death. It looks increasingly likely they were incapacitated beforehand.”
Authorities have not disclosed the exact nature of the toxic substances but confirmed that they were “not consistent with naturally occurring contaminants.” Specialists are now examining whether the hunters consumed the tainted food knowingly or if their supplies were deliberately tampered with.
The men, described by friends as experienced outdoorsmen, had set out for a multi-day expedition. Their bodies were discovered near their campsite after a severe thunderstorm swept the region.
Law enforcement agencies are treating the case as suspicious, and investigators are combing through the men’s phones, cameras, and GPS devices for additional clues. Forensic experts say a full autopsy report, expected in the coming weeks, could confirm whether the toxins alone were fatal or if the lightning strike delivered the final blow.
“This isn’t just a tragic accident in the woods anymore,” one investigator remarked. “It may be something far darker.”
The case has left the small rural community on edge as authorities work to piece together what happened in the hunters’ final hours.
