Couple Asphyxiated by Grill Used to Heat Home

VAN NUYS — A couple who used a charcoal grill to heat their apartment died of carbon monoxide poisoning early Thursday, authorities said.

Agripino Ajquejay, 43, and his wife, Ermelinda Lopez, 51, were found dead in their home in the 14900 block of Vanowen Street shortly before 7 a.m., said Los Angeles Police homicide Det. Al Aldez.

The victims were discovered by Ajquejay’s 19-year-old son, Mauricio. His father, a recent immigrant from Guatemala, died holding the telephone, police said.

“The husband was conscious enough at one point to try to make a telephone call,” Aldez said. He said the deaths were accidental.

City fire officials said cold weather often brings similar tragedies, including house fires from furnaces or heaters. Worse, people often use devices for warmth that were intended for other purposes.