I didn't mean to come off as some elitist jerk. If what you're saying is true and some how these two seperate characters bugged out and lost a complete level + more from 2 deaths. Then that is a serious matter that should be brought to light. You may want to have those 2 separate people petition and submit as much proof as they can.

A bug of that caliber, you would be hard pressed to convince people of without screenshots, video or log files. Searching the forums for keywords on the subject would also be a great first step.

It is a strong possibility that those people were exaggerating as paulgiamatti said. I've lost a full yellow bubble from 1 death pre-velious.
What race are the two players?

Well, for what it's worth, I am strongly opposed to capital punishment.

Well, I could see exaggeration leading to this on a hybrid in a level after a hell level. The visual hit to the xp bar is phenomenal. I suggest every hybrid dust oneself at least once post hell level. It really is breathtaking.

over 5 yellow? maybe your friends forgot what level they started at?

u read much Camus?