Model and humanitarian Dayle Haddon, a beloved figure in the fashion world and an ambassador for UNICEF, has died following a suspected carbon monoxide leak at a Pennsylvania home owned by her daughter, former journalist Ryan Haddon, and her son-in-law, Hallmark star Marc Blucas. The tragic incident occurred on Friday morning at the couple’s home in Solebury Township, Bucks County, Pennsylvania, where authorities are investigating the cause of the leak and its fatal consequences.
At approximately 6:30 a.m., emergency services received a distress call reporting that a 76-year-old man had collapsed on the property. Responding immediately, the Lambertville-New Hope Ambulance and Rescue Squad arrived to find the unconscious man in a detached office or in-law suite located on the grounds. The man, whose identity has not been disclosed, was rushed to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Jersey, though his condition remains unknown.
However, the real tragedy unfolded when, during their response to the incident, first responders discovered Haddon’s lifeless body in a second-floor bedroom of the same in-law suite. The Bucks County Coroner’s Office later confirmed her identity. Haddon, 76, had been a household name in the 1970s and ‘80s as a supermodel and was known for her strong advocacy work. She later went on to serve as a UNICEF ambassador and founded WomenOne, an organization focused on educational opportunities for girls and women around the world.
Authorities have not immediately disclosed whether Ryan Haddon or Marc Blucas were present in the home at the time of the incident, but they are reportedly not suspected of being involved in the suspected carbon monoxide leak. The New Hope Eagle Volunteer Fire Company, which was on the scene, confirmed the presence of dangerously high levels of carbon monoxide in the building. Preliminary findings suggest that a malfunctioning heating unit was responsible for releasing large quantities of the poisonous gas inside the building.
“We are deeply saddened by this loss, and our thoughts are with Marc, Ryan, and their family during this incredibly difficult time,” said Detective Sergeant Jonathan Koretzky of the Solebury Township Police Department. “The malfunction in the heating system led to the release of carbon monoxide, which tragically claimed the life of Dayle Haddon and left several individuals injured.”
In addition to the two victims, two emergency medical technicians and a police officer were exposed to the harmful gas. They were all taken to Doylestown Hospital for treatment but have been reported to be in stable condition.
Ryan Haddon and Blucas purchased the property in 2012 for just over $1 million. The property, which dates back to 1711, is steeped in historical charm and has been under renovation since the couple moved there. Blucas, who is known for his roles in TV series such as “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Blue Bloods,” previously spoke about the restoration of the historic property in interviews. In 2016, during an appearance on Hallmark Channel’s “Home & Family,” Blucas described how they were preserving the home and creating new memories with their family. He mentioned how the architecture of the area, with its old stone barns and houses, made it an ideal place for their long-term renovation project.
“We wanted to be closer to family, and this area on the East Coast provides that connection with history and architecture,” Blucas said. “The restoration of this property keeps me creatively stimulated when I’m not out filming.”
Blucas also mentioned how they began raising animals, such as chickens and rabbits, in the guest house on the property while the main house was still under renovation. It was a dream come true for Blucas and his family as they turned the historic property into a home, blending their love of history with the modern needs of their growing family.
The suspected carbon monoxide leak has deeply shocked the couple and their friends and colleagues in the entertainment and humanitarian worlds. Marc Blucas, widely known for his roles on Hallmark films and TV shows, is now dealing with the unimaginable loss of his mother-in-law, a woman who was admired not only for her beauty but for her dedication to improving the lives of others. Blucas’ wife, Ryan Haddon, who now works as a life coach and hypnotherapist, has also lost her mother heartbreakingly and unexpectedly.
Haddon’s legacy as a trailblazer in the fashion industry and her long history of philanthropic work with UNICEF and WomenOne will not soon be forgotten. Her untimely passing leaves a gaping hole in the hearts of those who knew her and who benefited from her tireless efforts to better the world.
Gregg Haddon, Dayle’s son-in-law, expressed his shock and heartbreak in a statement: “Dayle was more than a mother-in-law to me. She was a source of wisdom, warmth, and inspiration. I will forever remember her kindness and dedication to making the world a better place.”
The entire family, along with the broader community, is now left to cope with the aftermath of the deadly gas leak, which serves as a tragic reminder of the silent dangers lurking in everyday life. Carbon monoxide poisoning is often called the “silent killer” because it is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it nearly impossible to detect without proper monitoring.
In the wake of this incident, experts are urging homeowners, especially those in older homes, to ensure that their heating units and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. The loss of Dayle Haddon in such a way underscores the importance of taking the necessary precautions to protect one’s family and loved ones from the invisible dangers of carbon monoxide.
As the investigation continues, the family and friends of Dayle Haddon are left to mourn her loss while cherishing the legacy she leaves behind—a legacy of love, kindness, and a lifetime of contributions to the global community.
