Suspected burglar dies in chimney after homeowner unknowingly lights fire

Cody Caldwell was found dead after firefighters dismantled the chimney

Local fire and sheriff personnel responded to the home in Fresno, California (Reuters/Handout)

A suspected burglar who became stuck in the chimney of a house in California has died after the homeowner lit a fire without realising anyone was inside.

The Coroner’s Office concluded that Cody Caldwell died of smoke inhalation and burns.

Fresno County Sheriff's office said a preliminary investigation showed the 19-year-old became trapped after climbing into the chimney of the house in Huron, Fresno, overnight on Friday in an attempt to burgle it.

But when the homeowner, who was away on Friday, unknowingly lit the fire in the fireplace on Saturday, he heard someone yell and alerted the police.

Although the homeowner tried to put the fire out, firefighters had to dismantle the chimney. By the time the suspect was freed, he was found to be dead.

Jake Jensen from the Sheriff’s office told KGPE news site he did not know how long the man had been trapped. “The homeowner noticed some of his stuff had been rummaged through, he thinks the guy did get into the chimney [on Friday night].”

Mr Jensen said drills and chisels had to be used “to take apart the chimney and try to get the person out”.

Additional reporting by Reuters