Death investigation launched after 73 y.o. man found dead in southwest Bakersfield: Kern County Sheriff’s Office

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — The Kern County Sheriff’s Office has launched an investigation after a disabled man was found dead in southwest Bakersfield Monday morning.

The Bakersfield Fire Department arrived at a home on Selkirk Drive, Near Ming Avenue and Gosford Road about 11:30 p.m. Sunday. At the scene, a woman told Firefighters her husband, a wheelchair user, was still inside.

Officials later found Skyler Lee Meighan, 73, unresponsive. BFD said Meighan died of smoke inhalation before they could reach him.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but BFD investigators said his death doesn’t appear to be malicious. It is unknown if smoke detectors were working in the home at the time of the fire.

Crews added it’s important to note that the man’s bedroom door was open. If you ever experience a fire, a closed door can help stop the spread of flames.

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