Homepage > Boston News

Man Trapped In Cluttered Home For Days

90-Year-Old Trapped When Debris Falls

POSTED: 6:14 pm EDT September 15, 2007
UPDATED: 6:27 pm EDT September 15, 2007

Michael Halko probably wishes he had done a bit more housekeeping.

The 90-year-old man's home was so cluttered that he was buried for several days under a pile of debris that fell on him inside his house.

Neighbors called police after they hadn't seen Halko for more than three days.

Firefighters arrived to find the home packed nearly floor to ceiling with belongings that blocked passages. They couldn't see the man, they could only hear him.

Finally, they found him conscious under a pile of debris. It took 45 minutes to get Halko out as rescuers formed a 13-person chain to move him through the clutter.

Fire officials said Halko was dehydrated but didn't suffer serious injury. They say he was likely trapped for two or three days.

Health officials said the home wasn't fit to be lived in, and contacted the man's relatives.

Links We Like

Embellish an empty abode with these easy, inexpensive projects and make your home feel more like home. More

If you have aspirations of becoming a millionaire, check out these five habits that may be worth emulating. More

Negotiating a price on a new or used car is never fun. Find out from the insiders how to get the best price for you. More

Featured On 5

Health Topics & Information

Many seemingly healthy foods are actually bad for your heart. Learn how to replace the imposters with nutritionally rich foods. More