Brazilian Woman, 24, Dies After Losing Consciousness in Bathtub and Suffering Third-Degree Burns [Health Talk]

[Financial News] A 24-year-old young woman suffered third-degree burns over her entire body and received intensive care but eventually died from cardiac arrest after a hot tub accident at a motel in Curitiba, Brazil.

The deceased woman, identified as Gabrielle Cristine Barreto de Freitas, who had a 5-year-old son, was pronounced dead at the hospital six days after the accident.

According to reports from Brazilian local media Metropoles and The Sun in the UK, the incident occurred last April when Gabrielle visited a motel with a man she met at a party and was taking a bath together. It is presumed that she lost consciousness after hitting her head while the man left the tub, leaving Gabrielle alone.

Exposed to hot water for a long time, she regained consciousness to find herself with severe burns that peeled her skin. She screamed in extreme pain as she got out of the tub.

Gabrielle was rushed to the hospital immediately after the accident, where extensive third-degree burns and tendon exposure were confirmed. Photos from the intensive care unit showed her entire body wrapped in bandages, with some skin peeled off her face, causing shock. Despite intensive care, she died from sudden cardiac arrest a week later.


Scald burns are more common than expected but their dangers are often overlooked. Exposure to water over 60°C for just 5 seconds can cause third-degree burns. The risk is higher for infants, the elderly, and patients with limited mobility, as their skin is thin and sensitive.

Elderly or physically restricted individuals may not realize they are burned due to reduced body temperature sensation, so it is advisable to avoid bathing alone.

Long baths in the tub can lead to skin damage due to prolonged exposure to hot water. This can also lead to injuries from low blood pressure or fainting.

For first aid in case of burns, immediately cool the body with lukewarm water for 15-20 minutes. Avoid using ice packs or ice, as they can cause tissue damage by constricting blood vessels.

Do not burst blisters, protect them with a clean gauze or towel, and cover with sterile gauze to prevent infection. Seek immediate medical attention. If the burn area is wide or deep, call emergency services immediately. Burns on the face, hands, genitals, or joints can cause functional impairment and require professional treatment.

hsg@fnnews.com Han Seung-gon Reporter