Suspected Burglar Found Dead Hanging Upside Down from Utility Pipe

Kentucky authorities say the 60-year-old man died after becoming stuck while allegedly trying to break into a business.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Kentucky authorities say a 60-year-old man, identified as Paul Masters, died after he was found hanging upside down from a utility pipe connected to a building in a shopping center. Police believe Masters was attempting to burglarize a business when he fell and became stuck on the building's utilities.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers that can occur when individuals attempt to illegally access private property. While the details are still under investigation, it serves as a tragic reminder of the risks involved in criminal behavior and the importance of public safety.

The details

According to the Versailles Police Department, officers were called to the shopping center on Monday morning after a driver reported finding a person suspended from a building. When officers arrived, they found Masters hanging from his legs on a utility pipe connected to the building. He was lowered to the ground and taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Preliminary findings suggest Masters was attempting to burglarize a business when he fell and became stuck on the building's utilities.

  • On Monday morning, a driver reported finding a person suspended from a building.
  • Police were called to the shopping center and found Masters hanging from a utility pipe.
  • Masters was pronounced dead at the hospital.

The players

Paul Masters

A 60-year-old man who was found dead hanging upside down from a utility pipe in a shopping center.

Versailles Police Department

The law enforcement agency investigating the incident.

Brett Least

The owner of Workout Anytime, a business located in the shopping center where the incident occurred.

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What they’re saying

“We've never had a problem here.”

— Brett Least, Owner, Workout Anytime (fox5vegas.com)

What’s next

Versailles police said their investigation into the incident is ongoing.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the risks involved in criminal behavior and the importance of public safety. While the details are still under investigation, it highlights the need for continued efforts to address property crimes and ensure the well-being of local communities.