Man Found Dead in Restaurant Vent After Suspected Burglary Attempt
A hearing-impaired man was discovered deceased in the ventilation system of an Atlanta soul food restaurant, authorities said.
Atlanta police responded to a call Monday morning at Walter’s Soul Food Cafe on Cleveland Avenue where a hearing-impaired man was found dead inside the establishment's ventilation system. The discovery was made by an employee who spotted the 37-year-old, identified as Terrika Myers, partially lodged in a kitchen vent.
Atlanta Fire Rescue crews were dispatched to the scene, but Myers was pronounced dead by paramedics. The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office has confirmed his identity and scheduled an autopsy to determine the official cause of death. Police have indicated there were no immediate signs of foul play.
Reports suggest Myers may have been attempting to burglarize the restaurant. The building's roof is reportedly accessible from the ground, and investigators believe Myers may have tried to enter through the HVAC system. It is unclear how long Myers was trapped in the ventilation shaft.
Friends and family have expressed grief over Myers' death, with a GoFundMe campaign initiated to assist with funeral costs. A post from his cousin described him as a "devoted friend, a loving family man, and someone who would help anyone in need." The campaign also noted that Myers was hearing-impaired.