Elderly Sikeston man dies in fire caused by cigar

SIKESTON, Mo. -- A 97-year-old Sikeston man died from severe burns that a family member believes was caused by falling asleep while smoking.

According to a news release issued by Capt. James McMillen of the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, officers on Tuesday responded to a report of a fire at 711 N. Kingshighway.

The caller who made the report said her father, John Yount, had caught himself on fire while smoking a cigar.

Police found Yount inside the home with severe burns after a family member had been able to extinguish the flames with a towel.

Yount was transported to St. John's Mercy Hospital in St. Louis where he died from his injuries.

A family member explained that Yount frequently fell asleep while smoking.

Pertinent address:

711 N. Kingshighway, Sikeston, MO