A 45-year-old man has died after becoming trapped inside a donation box earlier this week and losing the ability to breathe.
The man, who has not yet been named, placed a desperate call to police around 1:36am on Monday (24 November), telling the operator he couldn’t get enough air.
On the call, he can reportedly be heard pleading, “I can’t breathe, I’m having problems breathing”, after becoming stuck in the metal structure.
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Authorities believe the man was attempting to retrieve clothes from inside the box, which was fitted with an anti-theft mechanism, when he became wedged.
Despite immediate rescue efforts by emergency crews, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.
Mark Herman, a Harris County, Texas, constable said in a statement: “First responders located the individual and immediately began rescue efforts.
“Fire crews worked to safely gain access and remove the subject; however, the male was later confirmed deceased on scene.
“Please avoid the area and allow emergency crews room to operate.
“Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragedy.”
Arms of Hope, the charity who run for the donation box, issued a statement after the death.
A spokesperson said: “We are aware of the tragic incident involving a deceased individual discovered in a donation collection box.
“Our hearts and prayers are with the individual and their loved ones during this difficult time.
“Because this is an active investigation, we are not able to share further details at this time.”
Authorities are investigating.
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