Feb. 07--Platte City authorities on Monday identified the man who died after he set fire to several vehicles last week as Curtis J. Durbin, 20.
Durbin, of Platte City, died of smoke inhalation accompanied by high levels of carbon monoxide, authorities said.
On Friday morning, police said, fires were started inside a dozen vehicles. Durbin's body was found inside a white GMC parked at a residence in the 2100 block of Wilkerson Drive.
Durbin was charged in January with one count of second-degree burglary. Authorities allege that he broke into a residence in Platte County in October and stole a television, a video game system, a shotgun and other items.
"Curtis appeared to be a troubled young man who seemed to be trying to overcome life's struggles, and I hope that he rests in peace," said Michael Accurso, an attorney who was representing Durbin in the burglary case.
"My condolences to the family he leaves behind -- to his mother, in particular, who was doing everything in her power to help her son."
To reach Glenn E. Rice, call 816-234-4341 or send email to [email protected].
Copyright 2012 - The Kansas City Star, Mo.
