Man escapes 20-year captivity by setting fire in Waterbury home

A 32-year-old man in Waterbury, Connecticut, escaped from a room where he claims he was held captive by his stepmother, Kimberly Sullivan, for over 20 years by intentionally setting a fire on February 17. He revealed to first responders that he used hand sanitizer and paper to start the fire, stating, 'I wanted my freedom.' Upon rescue, he was found severely emaciated, weighing only 68 pounds, and reported enduring prolonged abuse, starvation, and neglect during his captivity. Sullivan, 56, was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including kidnapping and assault, while her attorney denied the allegations, claiming she provided care and shelter. Waterbury Police Chief Fernando Spagnolo described the situation as one of the worst acts of inhumanity he has ever witnessed. Sullivan's bond was set at $300,000 following her arraignment.