Maryland couple dies from extreme heat on Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia

A Maryland couple, Alhaji Alieu Dausy and Haja Isatu Wurie, tragically died during the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia due to extreme heat. The couple, from Bowie, were among over 1,300 people who succumbed to the severe conditions. U.S. Senate candidate Angela Alsobrooks confirmed their deaths, highlighting Haja Isatu Wurie’s active community involvement and volunteer work for her campaign.

The couple is believed to have died from heat stroke amid temperatures exceeding 110 degrees in Mecca. Their daughter, Saida Wurie, mentioned that the couple saved their life savings, around $11,500 each, to embark on this journey. The Hajj pilgrimage, a mandatory religious duty for Muslims who are physically and financially able, fell during the scorching Saudi summer this year. Many pilgrims, including Dausy and Wurie, could not access air-conditioned spaces provided for authorized pilgrims due to the high cost of official permits. This left them vulnerable to the extreme heat.

Alsobrooks expressed deep condolences, stating that their loss is profound and that they will be deeply missed.

Source: CBS News