Mexican actress Marcela Alcázar passed away on December 1 during a spiritual ritual in Durango (Mexico) where kambó, a substance derived from frog poison, was used, as reported by Univisión.
The channel states that shortly after ingesting the substance, the 33-year-old actress began to experience vomiting and diarrhea. However, Marcela's sister, Mariana Alcázar, revealed to the local news portal Tiempo y Espacio that during the ritual held at the Moyocoyani Center, frog poison was applied to her skin, and shortly after, her health problems began.
According to her sister's testimony, the ritual leaders assured that she would be fine and did not need medical assistance, but Marcela started convulsing, prompting her friends to call Emergency Services. She was eventually taken to a Red Cross hospital but did not survive.
The Durango State Prosecutor's Office is investigating the circumstances of Marcela's death, while searching for the shaman from the ritual where the incident occurred.
The film production company Mapache Films, where Marcela worked, has expressed their condolences on their Facebook account.
"With deep sorrow, we mourn the passing of our dear colleague and friend, Marcela Alcázar Rodríguez. Her departure leaves an immense void in our hearts and in our work community. Her dedication, joy, and commitment deeply touched all of us who had the privilege of working alongside her. [..] We will always remember you with affection and gratitude," they wrote.