House of horrors uncovered after desperate escape

A Connecticut house of horrors shocked authorities when a 32-year-old man set his bedroom on fire in a final attempt to escape. His stepmother, Kimberly Sullivan, allegedly kept him locked away for two decades in a cramped 8-by-9-foot room.

When firefighters arrived, they found the man weighing only 68 pounds. He later admitted, “I set the fire because I wanted my freedom.”

Twenty years of torment in a house of horrors

Investigators discovered that the victim had been confined since age 11. His small room lacked heat and air conditioning, and he received only two cups of water daily. In desperate moments, he drank from the toilet.

The situation worsened after his father’s death last year, leaving him fully under Sullivan’s control. With no access to medical or dental care, his health deteriorated.

Warnings ignored for years

Concerned teachers and school staff reported signs of neglect more than 20 times. Former principal Tom Pannone said the victim showed signs of extreme malnourishment, often stealing food and eating from trash cans.

Despite repeated calls to child services, no action was taken. Officials were initially told he had transferred schools, then later that he was being homeschooled.

House of horrors survivor finally freed

Police Chief Fernando Spagnolo called the case “heartbreaking and unimaginable.” The house of horrors remained a secret for years, but now authorities are ensuring justice is served.

Kimberly Sullivan faces kidnapping and assault charges. A judge set her bond at $300,000 during Wednesday’s arraignment.

The victim’s escape ended decades of suffering. But this case raises serious questions—how did this house of horrors remain hidden for 20 years?