Fatal Connecticut Boat Fire Traced to Propane Heater

Authorities in Stratford, Connecticut say a fatal boat fire has been traced to a propane heater that ignited the blaze in the vessel’s small sleeping quarters.

Officials have identified the victim as 52-year-old Don Czaplinski, who lived on the boat and previously owned a Stratford deli in a nearby shopping plaza.

Czaplinski was killed early Saturday on his 40-foot sport fishing boat, which was docked at Stratford’s Boardwalk Marina.

The state medical examiner’s office says he died of smoke inhalation, and his death has been ruled accidental.
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Information from: Connecticut Post