A family posted the final photo of their little boy, taken just minutes before he was pronounced dead.
The Bitencourt family was left heartbroken when their seven-year-old son, Arthur Emanuel, was pronounced dead just minutes after they took his final photo.
The sweet snap of him smiling and giving two thumbs up to the camera became a tragic memory, prior to rushing him to hospital where medics attempted to save his life.
The seven-year-old was near to their family home in Ipiranga, in the southern Brazilian state of Parana, when the incident occurred.
In the picture, Arthur could be seen sat and playing in playing in limestone powder, by the side of a road, next to a field and a parked lorry.
He was sat in the powder up to his chest, but little did his parents know that the substance is actually poisonous.
His family was unaware the powder could make him ill, and the police since launched an investigation into his death.
His uncle, Romaldo Bitencourt, said: “This photo was the last and taken a few minutes before his tragic death, caused by inhaling limestone, while playing.
“The memories I will have of you, my dear child, will always be the best.”
He added: “Our gratitude to GOD for putting Arthur in our life a treasure, who stayed with us for seven years, one month, and ten days.
“Life is like a moving train, but our dear and beloved son, brother, nephew, cousin, grandson, went down [landed] still in the beginning of the journey.”
When construction workers ordinarily handle the substance, they are told to wear wear face masks and protective clothing like gloves and goggles.
Limestone powder has the potential to cause serious lung problems, as well as cancer and eye damage.
Advice for handling the powder includes taking dust control measures like exhaust ventilation, avoid generating dust, and practicing good personal hygiene by washing hands and showering after use.
People rushed to pay tribute to the young boy after his final photo circulated on social media.
One said: “Poor thing. I didn’t know [it was poisonous] to be honest – cannot think of one time I have ever seen it. Kids love any kind of ‘sand’ pit.”
Another added: “Hell, I didn’t know it was toxic either kid. Not until just now unfortunately.”
“Poor kid was just living his best life,” a third penned.
