Two siblings, aged 8 and 10, found dead in parked car in British Bases, Cyprus; parents held for negligence

The discovery

At around 18:00 on Sunday 28 June, emergency services responded to a call at the village of Xylofagou, in the British Sovereign Base Area of Dhekelia, Cyprus. Two children, aged 8 and 10, were found unresponsive inside a parked vehicle. Despite the rapid arrival of police and paramedics, the children had already died. Medical staff at Famagusta district hospital later confirmed the deaths.

Investigation and arrests

British Bases Police cordoned off the scene and are carrying out extensive inquiries, gathering evidence and witness statements. The children's father and stepmother were arrested on the evening of 28 June on suspicion of negligence in connection with the deaths. Authorities have not disclosed how long the children had been in the vehicle or why they were left there.

Causes of death

Preliminary indications point to asphyxiation as a possible cause, though an official confirmation awaits post-mortem results. Cypriot media reported that the car was locked and had been standing in a field adjacent to a residential area. First responders observed signs of rigor mortis, suggesting death occurred some time before discovery. Reports also mention burns on the children's bodies, attributed to prolonged sun exposure inside the car.

Victims' background

Several news outlets stated the children were of Bulgarian origin and were siblings. The family lived in the area, though the exact circumstances leading to the incident remain unclear.

Ongoing response

The police investigation continues, with officers collecting forensic evidence and interviewing persons who may have seen the children before the tragedy. A post-mortem examination is expected to clarify the precise medical cause of death.