November 29, 2015
Suspected California burglar dies in chimney after resident lights fire
FRESNO, California (AP) — Authorities say a suspected burglar who became stuck in the chimney of a Central California home died after the homeowner unknowingly lit a fire in the fireplace.
Fresno County Sheriff’s spokesman Tony Botti said an autopsy on Sunday concluded that 19-year-old Cody Caldwell died of smoke inhalation and burns.
Authorities said a homeowner in the rural town of Huron heard someone scream after lighting a fire in his fireplace Saturday afternoon and alerted authorities.
When the homeowner realized a person was stuck in the chimney, he extinguished the fire.
Lieutenant Brandon Pursell said Caldwell was responsive when fire-fighters smashed the chimney to get him out, but when they got to the young man he died.