When restaurant owner Resham Singh and his son made their grim discovery on Monday morning, they had no idea they were walking into a death trap.
The young cleaner they found unconscious in their Riverstone restaurant had already succumbed to an invisible enemy—one that nearly claimed five more lives before the day was over.
The tragic incident at Haveli Indian Restaurant has sent shockwaves through Sydney's northwest community, but it's also served as a sobering reminder of a danger that lurks in our homes, especially for those over 60.
A morning that changed everything
The victim has been identified as 25-year-old Nepali international student Shiva Khatri, who worked at the venue as a cleaner. Emergency services were called to the Garfield Road restaurant around 9.15am on Monday after Khatri was found unresponsive inside.
What happened next showcases the very best of our emergency services. The employee had been discovered by the owner of the restaurant, Resham Singh, and his son who performed CPR. Soon afterwards, the police officers who attended the scene took over but were unable to resuscitate the man.
'They've put their own lives at risk, going into the environment, commencing CPR trying to save this young man's life'
The five police officers who rushed to help didn't hesitate, even when they noticed something was amiss. They have all been taken to a hospital, where they are being treated for some sort of effects resulting from the odour located within the restaurant area.
Along with the restaurant owner and his son who lived above the premises, seven patients were transported to three hospitals—three to Blacktown, two to Hawkesbury and two to Mt Druitt.
The officers have since been released and are expected to make full recoveries.
The invisible threat in our midst
NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Gavin Wood said there were 'extremely high levels' of carbon monoxide detected inside the building. Fire and Rescue NSW Superintendent Adam Dewberry confirmed specialist firefighters detected dangerous levels of gas inside the building.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is particularly dangerous because carbon monoxide is a poisonous clear gas that you can't taste or smell. Carbon monoxide (CO) has been called the 'silent and invisible killer' because it doesn't have a smell, colour, or taste.
It's one of the most prevalent causes of death due to poisoning by non-pharmaceutical substances in Australia.
The numbers are sobering: every year, over 250 Australians die from poisoning by carbon dioxide and similar gases.
Warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning
If you experience these symptoms, especially if multiple family members are affected:
• Headaches and dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue and weakness
• Chest pain
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating
What to do: Get fresh air immediately, call 000, and seek medical attention. In Victoria, call Nurse-on-Call on 1300 60 60 24 (24/7).
Why seniors face greater risk
Everyone is susceptible to carbon monoxide poisoning, but children, older adults, people who are physically ill, and pets are more likely to be affected by CO.
There are several reasons why those over 60 need to be especially vigilant:
Age-related physiological changes mean that as we age, lungs and hearts work less efficiently, so even low CO concentration can harm us.
Pre-existing health conditions like heart disease, lung problems, or anemia make CO more dangerous. Older adults may feel serious effects even at lower CO levels than younger people.
Recovery time depends on how much CO you inhaled and your overall health. Some people feel better after a few hours of oxygen therapy, while others may have lingering symptoms for days or weeks. Seniors may need more follow-up care.
Taking action in your home
The good news is that carbon monoxide poisoning is entirely preventable with the right precautions. While CO detectors aren't legally mandatory in most Australian homes, understanding how to check for this dangerous gas is essential for every household's safety.
Australian safety authorities recommend a minimum professional inspection every two years, with annual checks for older appliances. All types of gas heaters, including central heating units, space heaters, wall units and gas log fires, should be serviced a minimum of every two years by a licensed gasfitter who has completed training on detecting and correcting risks of carbon monoxide spillage.
Essential carbon monoxide safety checklist for seniors
- Install CO detectors near sleeping areas and gas appliances
- Test detector batteries monthly, replace every 6 months
- Service gas appliances every 2 years by licensed gasfitters
- Never use barbecues, camping stoves, or generators indoors
- Don't idle vehicles in garages, even with doors open
- Ensure proper ventilation around all gas appliances
- If you suspect a leak: get fresh air, call 000, seek medical attention
Choosing the right detector
Australian retailers offer several carbon monoxide detector options suitable for seniors. The Fire Pro carbon monoxide alarm is an affordable device with one job—to keep you and your family safe from CO poisoning. And while this cheap carbon monoxide detector doesn't have any smart features, it does have a powerful 85 dB siren to warn everyone in your home.
For those wanting more features, INKBIRDPLUS marries safety features like carbon monoxide detection with temperature and humidity monitoring. Even if it's switched off, this detector will alert you to the high CO levels in your home.
Install CO detectors near sleeping areas in your home. Follow the instructions to test the battery once a month and replace the battery every six months. Purchase a CO alarm that meets the Underwriters Laboratories standard.
When winter heating becomes dangerous
As temperatures drop across Australia, many of us turn to gas heaters for warmth. However, a number of open-flued gas heaters have been identified as posing a serious health risk.
The Department of Health Victoria and Energy Safe Victoria advise that you do not use a Vulcan Heritage or Pyrox Heritage gas heater in your home until it has been tested by professionals.
All open-flued gas heaters, especially Vulcan or Pyrox Heritage gas space heaters, should not be used until they have been tested and serviced by a qualified gas fitter. Testing should also include the flue and checking for adequate ventilation in the house.
Community response and support
The tragedy has deeply affected Sydney's Indian community. Blacktown councillor Moninder Singh described the owners as 'a young family, very humble people' who are well known in the local community. Haveli Indian Restaurant, which opened in April last year, is a popular restaurant in the area.
Khatri's brother, Mandip, has launched a fundraising appeal to repatriate his body to Nepal. 'With deep sorrow, I share that Shiva tragically lost his life yesterday morning in a workplace accident,' he wrote.
'We are raising funds to take Shiva's body back to Nepal so that he can be laid to rest with his family... any contribution, no matter how small, will make a big difference and help us honour Shiva's memory.'
Important contacts for gas safety
If you suspect a gas leak or carbon monoxide issue:
- Emergency: Call 000 immediately
- NSW Health: 1300 761 874 (Environmental Health Unit)
- Victoria: Nurse-on-Call 1300 60 60 24 (24/7)
- Gas Emergency: Contact your local gas provider's emergency line
Only licensed gas fitters can legally perform gas appliance maintenance and CO testing in Australia. Always use qualified professionals for any gas appliance work.
The path forward
Investigators are examining kitchen equipment and ventilation systems, and will review CCTV, maintenance records and witness accounts as part of a broader safety inquiry. The investigation will help determine exactly what went wrong and how similar tragedies can be prevented.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable. As the colder months approach, safeguard the home from CO leaks and regularly check on the elderly and infants, who are most susceptible to falling ill from invisible, odorless CO fumes.
What This Means For You
This tragedy serves as a crucial reminder that carbon monoxide safety isn't just about having the right equipment—it's about maintaining it, understanding the risks, and taking action before it's too late. For those of us over 60, the stakes are even higher, making vigilance not just wise, but essential.
Have you checked your carbon monoxide detector lately? When did you last have your gas appliances serviced? Share your safety tips and experiences in the comments below—your advice might just save a life.
Credit: YouTube
Original Article
https://7news.com.au/news/one-dead-...t-restaurant-in-riverstone-sydney--c-20034757
Nepali student Shiva Khatri named victim of fatal gas leak at Sydney’s Haveli Indian Restaurant | The Australia Today
Cited text: The man who died in a suspected carbon monoxide leak at Haveli Indian Restaurant in Riverstone has been identified as 25-year-old Nepali international...
Excerpt: The victim has been identified as 25-year-old Nepali international student Shiva Khatri, who worked at the venue as a cleaner.
https://www.theaustraliatoday.com.a...gas-leak-at-sydneys-haveli-indian-restaurant/
Nepali student Shiva Khatri named victim of fatal gas leak at Sydney’s Haveli Indian Restaurant | The Australia Today
Cited text: Image: 25-year-old Nepali international student Shiva Khatri (Source: GoFundMe) Emergency services were called to the Garfield Road restaurant around ...
Excerpt: The victim has been identified as 25-year-old Nepali international student Shiva Khatri, who worked at the venue as a cleaner.
https://www.theaustraliatoday.com.a...gas-leak-at-sydneys-haveli-indian-restaurant/
Haveli Indian Restaurant: One person dead after gas leak—Indian Link
Cited text: The employee had been discovered by the owner of the restaurant, Resham Singh, and his son who performed CPR. Soon afterwards, the police officers who...
Excerpt: The employee had been discovered by the owner of the restaurant, Resham Singh, and his son who performed CPR.
https://www.indianlink.com.au/haveli-indian-restaurant-one-person-dead-after-gas-leak/
Riverstone gas leak: One dead, five police hospitalised after gas leak at Haveli Indian restaurant in Sydney | The Nightly
Cited text: They have all been taken to a hospital, where they are being treated for some sort of effects resulting from the odour located within the restaurant a...
Excerpt: They have all been taken to a hospital, where they are being treated for some sort of effects resulting from the odour located within the restaurant area.
https://thenightly.com.au/australia...fter-gas-leak-at-sydney-restaurant-c-20035040
Riverstone gas leak: One dead, five police hospitalised after gas leak at Haveli Indian restaurant in Sydney | The Nightly
Cited text: “In total we transported seven patients to three hospitals—three to Blacktown, two to Hawkesbury and two to Mt. Druitt” ...
Excerpt: seven patients were transported to three hospitals—three to Blacktown, two to Hawkesbury and two to Mt Druitt.
https://thenightly.com.au/australia...fter-gas-leak-at-sydney-restaurant-c-20035040
Nepali student Shiva Khatri named victim of fatal gas leak at Sydney’s Haveli Indian Restaurant | The Australia Today
Cited text: The officers have since been released.
Excerpt: The officers have since been released
https://www.theaustraliatoday.com.a...gas-leak-at-sydneys-haveli-indian-restaurant/
Nepali student Shiva Khatri named victim of fatal gas leak at Sydney’s Haveli Indian Restaurant | The Australia Today
Cited text: NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Gavin Wood said there were “extremely high levels” of carbon monoxide detected inside the building. While, Fire and ...
Excerpt: NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Gavin Wood said there were 'extremely high levels' of carbon monoxide detected inside the building.
https://www.theaustraliatoday.com.a...gas-leak-at-sydneys-haveli-indian-restaurant/
Fact sheets—Carbon monoxide safety fact sheet
Cited text: Carbon monoxide is a poisonous clear gas that you can’t taste or smell.
Excerpt: carbon monoxide is a poisonous clear gas that you can't taste or smell.
https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/factsheets/Pages/carbon-monoxide.aspx
Best carbon monoxide (CO) detectors of 2025 | SafeWise
Cited text: Carbon monoxide (CO) has been called the “silent and invisible killer” because it doesn’t have a smell, colour, or taste. It’s one of the most prevale...
Excerpt: Carbon monoxide (CO) has been called the 'silent and invisible killer' because it doesn't have a smell, colour, or taste.
https://www.safewise.com/au/best-carbon-monoxide-detectors/
Best carbon monoxide (CO) detectors of 2025 | SafeWise
Cited text: Every year, over 250 Australians each year die from poisoning by carbon dioxide and similar gases.
Excerpt: every year, over 250 Australians die from poisoning by carbon dioxide and similar gases.
https://www.safewise.com/au/best-carbon-monoxide-detectors/
Best carbon monoxide (CO) detectors of 2025 | SafeWise
Cited text: Everyone is susceptible to carbon monoxide poisoning, but children, older adults, people who are physically ill, and pets are more likely to be affect...
Excerpt: Everyone is susceptible to carbon monoxide poisoning, but children, older adults, people who are physically ill, and pets are more likely to be affected by CO.
https://www.safewise.com/au/best-carbon-monoxide-detectors/
Senior Safety: Carbon Monoxide Protection at Home
Cited text: That’s why experts call CO “the silent killer.” ... Age‑related physiological changes: As we age, lungs and hearts work less efficiently, so even low ...
Excerpt: Age-related physiological changes mean that as we age, lungs and hearts work less efficiently, so even low CO concentration can harm us.
https://seniorsafetyadvice.com/how-to-test-for-carbon-monoxide/
Senior Safety: Carbon Monoxide Protection at Home
Cited text:
Recovery time depends on how much CO you inhaled and your overall health. Some people feel better after a few hours of oxygen therapy, while others ...
Excerpt: Recovery time depends on how much CO you inhaled and your overall health. Some people feel better after a few hours of oxygen therapy, while others may have lingering symptoms for days or weeks.
https://seniorsafetyadvice.com/how-to-test-for-carbon-monoxide/
How to Check Carbon Monoxide Levels: A Comprehensive Safety Guide—DP Heating and Cooling
Cited text: While CO detectors aren’t legally mandatory in most Australian homes, understanding how to check for this dangerous gas is essential for every househo...
Excerpt: While CO detectors aren't legally mandatory in most Australian homes, understanding how to check for this dangerous gas is essential for every household's safety.
https://www.dpheatingcooling.com.au...monoxide-levels-a-comprehensive-safety-guide/
How to Check Carbon Monoxide Levels: A Comprehensive Safety Guide—DP Heating and Cooling
Cited text: · A: Australian safety authorities recommend a minimum professional inspection every two years, with annual checks for older appliances.
Excerpt: Australian safety authorities recommend a minimum professional inspection every two years, with annual checks for older appliances.
https://www.dpheatingcooling.com.au...monoxide-levels-a-comprehensive-safety-guide/
Carbon monoxide poisoning in the home
Cited text: All types of gas heaters, including central heating units, space heaters, wall units and gas log fires, should be serviced a minimum of every two year...
Excerpt: All types of gas heaters, including central heating units, space heaters, wall units and gas log fires, should be serviced a minimum of every two years by a licensed gasfitter who has completed training on detecting and correcting risks of…
https://www.health.vic.gov.au/environmental-health/carbon-monoxide-poisoning-in-the-home
Best carbon monoxide (CO) detectors of 2025 | SafeWise
Cited text: The Fire Pro carbon monoxide alarm is an affordable device with one job—to keep you and your family safe from CO poisoning. And while this cheap carbo...
Excerpt: The Fire Pro carbon monoxide alarm is an affordable device with one job—to keep you and your family safe from CO poisoning.
https://www.safewise.com/au/best-carbon-monoxide-detectors/
Best carbon monoxide (CO) detectors of 2025 | SafeWise
Cited text: ... INKBIRDPLUS marries safety features like carbon monoxide detection with temperature and humidity monitoring. Even if it's switched off, this detec...
Excerpt: INKBIRDPLUS marries safety features like carbon monoxide detection with temperature and humidity monitoring.
https://www.safewise.com/au/best-carbon-monoxide-detectors/
Senior Care: Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Winter | Right at Home
Cited text: Install CO detectors near sleeping areas in your home. Follow the instructions to test the battery once a month and replace the battery every six mont...
Excerpt: Install CO detectors near sleeping areas in your home. Follow the instructions to test the battery once a month and replace the battery every six months.
https://www.rightathome.net/blog/preventing-carbon-monoxide-poisoning-seniors
Carbon monoxide poisoning in the home
Cited text: A number of open-flued gas heaters have been identified as posing a serious health risk. The Department of Health Victoria and Energy Safe Victoria ad...
Excerpt: a number of open-flued gas heaters have been identified as posing a serious health risk.
https://www.health.vic.gov.au/environmental-health/carbon-monoxide-poisoning-in-the-home
Carbon monoxide poisoning in the home
Cited text: All open-flued gas heaters, especially Vulcan or Pyrox Heritage gas space heaters, should not be used until they have been tested and serviced by a qu...
Excerpt: All open-flued gas heaters, especially Vulcan or Pyrox Heritage gas space heaters, should not be used until they have been tested and serviced by a qualified gas fitter.
https://www.health.vic.gov.au/environmental-health/carbon-monoxide-poisoning-in-the-home
Nepali student Shiva Khatri named victim of fatal gas leak at Sydney’s Haveli Indian Restaurant | The Australia Today
Cited text: Blacktown councillor Moninder Singh described the owners as “a young family, very humble people” who are well known in the local community.
Excerpt: Blacktown councillor Moninder Singh described the owners as 'a young family, very humble people' who are well known in the local community.
https://www.theaustraliatoday.com.a...gas-leak-at-sydneys-haveli-indian-restaurant/
Nepali student Shiva Khatri named victim of fatal gas leak at Sydney’s Haveli Indian Restaurant | The Australia Today
Cited text: Haveli Indian Restaurant, which opened in April last year, is a popular restaurant in the area.
Excerpt: Haveli Indian Restaurant, which opened in April last year, is a popular restaurant in the area.
https://www.theaustraliatoday.com.a...gas-leak-at-sydneys-haveli-indian-restaurant/
Nepali student Shiva Khatri named victim of fatal gas leak at Sydney’s Haveli Indian Restaurant | The Australia Today
Cited text: Khatri’s brother, Mandip, has launched a fundraising appeal to repatriate his body to Nepal. “With deep sorrow, I share that Shiva tragically lost his...
Excerpt: Khatri's brother, Mandip, has launched a fundraising appeal to repatriate his body to Nepal.
https://www.theaustraliatoday.com.a...gas-leak-at-sydneys-haveli-indian-restaurant/
How to Check Carbon Monoxide Levels: A Comprehensive Safety Guide—DP Heating and Cooling
Cited text: ... A: Only licensed gas fitters can legally perform gas appliance maintenance and CO testing in Australia.
Excerpt: Only licensed gas fitters can legally perform gas appliance maintenance and CO testing in Australia.
https://www.dpheatingcooling.com.au...monoxide-levels-a-comprehensive-safety-guide/
One dead, six in hospital after suspected carbon monoxide leak at Riverstone restaurant -
Cited text: Investigators are examining kitchen equipment and ventilation systems, and will review CCTV, maintenance records and witness accounts as part of a bro...
Excerpt: Investigators are examining kitchen equipment and ventilation systems, and will review CCTV, maintenance records and witness accounts as part of a broader safety inquiry.
https://www.theindiansun.com.au/202...arbon-monoxide-leak-at-riverstone-restaurant/
Senior Care: Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Winter | Right at Home
Cited text: Carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable. As the colder months approach, safeguard the home from CO leaks and regularly check on the elderly and infan...
Excerpt: Carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable. As the colder months approach, safeguard the home from CO leaks and regularly check on the elderly and infants, who are most susceptible to falling ill from invisible, odorless CO fumes.
https://www.rightathome.net/blog/preventing-carbon-monoxide-poisoning-seniors
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