Electrocuted by Phone: Family of Chinese Woman Claims iPhone Caused Her Death as Device Goes off While Plugged In; Apple Says It Will Investigate

By Jared Feldschreiber | Jul 15, 2013 05:11 PM EDT

The Apple company says it will investigate claims that 23-year-old Chinese woman Ma Ailun, a fomer flight attendant, had been electrocuted when she tried to answer a call on her iPhone, which killed her. The phone was plugged into a wall and had been charging, UPI.com reported.

Initial reports from the Public Safety Bureau in Xinjiang province said that an 'elementary inspection' of 23-year-old Ma showed 'an obvious electronic injury' on her neck. However, local police have yet to confirm it was a result of being zapped from her iPphone was involved in her July 11 death.

"We are deeply saddened to learn of this tragic incident and offer our condolences to the Ma family," Apple said in a statement. "We will fully investigate and cooperate with authorities in this matter."

A woman who said she was Ma's sister alleged the iPhone was responsible.

"I hope that Apple Inc. can give us an explanation," she wrote on the Chinese social network Sina Weibo. "i also hope that all you will refrain from using your mobile devices while charging."

It was not confirmed which model Ma had used, and speculation focused mostly on the type of charger was used. A host of 'uncertifiable' power charges have recently hit the market in China.

A warning from the China Consumers' Association in May said the chargers could turn the smartphones into "pocket grenades,' causing explosions, electric shock or fires.

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