GENESEE COUNTY (WJRT) -
(02/20/12) - An autopsy, scheduled for Tuesday, will ultimately determine what caused the death of 86-year-old John Morgan.
Neighbors discovered him inside of his truck, in his driveway, on Flint's northside Monday morning.
Police believe he may have been there trying to stay warm because his power was shut off last week.
It has been a very mild winter, but still, those focused on finding help for the elderly say they have seen instances where some people just don't know where to turn if they find themselves struggling.
"Just like today. We had a transport, a gentleman, who'd been living in his truck for two months," said Diane Nims, executive director of Genesee County's Elder Abuse Task Force.
Nims said that man in that case is going through home foreclosure and he had no heat or water.
The task force is not involved in the investigation surrounding Morgan's death.
Flint Police say his death is not suspicious.
He did suffer from a medical condition, according to police.
Morgan's power was shut off Friday and a notice was issued.
He owed Consumers Energy $291.00.
Under policy, senior citizens have shut off protection, but Morgan's account was not flagged according to Consumer's Spokesman Kevin Keane.
"We had no record that this was a senior citizen customer of the utility," Keane said.
Nims said it is a sad reminder.
"They're finding it very difficult and they're not knowing what to do. I want them to call us. The assessment program or the elder abuse program. We got out and do a comprehensive assessment. We look in these areas," Nims said.
Genesee County Elder Abuse & Exploitation Task Force: 810-762-4022
Assessment Coordination & Referral Services: 810-762-4347
