A 75-year-old man reportedly completely panicked when he found a couple who had taken refuge in his home in Arkansas, United States. The stress felt caused him to have a heart attack, according to several American media.
Gary Brankel had spent a few weeks in a treatment center recovering from a medical problem. However, when he returned home on May 30, an unpleasant surprise awaited him.
Kelly DeShields and Matthew Villagran reportedly took advantage of his absence to stay in the residence for at least a month. According to American media KNWA, the couple believed the house had not been occupied for years.
The 54-year-old woman even tried to take ownership of the property after following instructions on Google, according to an affidavit obtained by the New York Post.
She later admitted that no one told her she could occupy the land.
Mr. Brankel was hospitalized again after his heart attack. At the time of writing, his state of health is unclear, but he was able to confirm that he did not recognize the squatters and never gave them permission to live in his home. .
The couple is also accused of burning Mr. Brankel’s personal documents and some decorations, according to the Benton County Detention Center.
The two individuals were arrested on June 5 for burglary. They are in pre-trial detention until their appearance in court on June 15, the Detention Center said.
