Suspected burglar dies in chimney after fire is lit

FRESNO, Calif. (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.

A Fresno County Sheriff’s spokesman said an autopsy concluded that Cody Caldwell, 19, 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 and alerted authorities. When the homeowner realized a person was stuck in the chimney, he extinguished the fire.

Authorities said Caldwell was responsive when firefighters smashed the chimney to get him out, but died later.