The father, of three boys who died after consuming energy drinks laced with rat poison, has died.

According to information, the father tried to commit suicide on May 26, the day of the poisoning. He was admitted to hospital under police guard and passed away on Friday.

On May 26, the community of Ratanda in Heidelberg was shook when three siblings, aged six, 13 and 16, died after consuming drinks allegedly laced with rat poison.

It is alleged that their father gave each of his five children energy drinks before they left for school.

One child did not consume any. Two brothers died at their school and the third boy passed away on his way to hospital. A fourth sibling was admitted to hospital but survived the ordeal.