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Man Dies After 911 Call From Houston-Area Donation Box as Investigation Continues

Authorities describe the containers as dangerous because anti-theft mechanisms can trap anyone who climbs inside.

Overview

  • The man called 911 around 1:36 a.m. saying he could not breathe from inside a donation box on North Grand Parkway West, according to the Precinct 4 Constable’s Office.
  • First responders arrived in about three minutes, found him unresponsive, and pronounced him dead at the scene.
  • Officials said he was about 45 and likely homeless, and they believe he went in headfirst to retrieve clothing and became stuck by an anti-theft feature.
  • Arms of Hope, which operates the box, confirmed the death and said the matter remains under active investigation, and the medical examiner has not released findings.
  • Deputies reported no sign of foul play and noted this is the latest in a series of Houston-area donation-box entrapments, including a June 2025 death and an April 2022 rescue.