Norcross, GA – A Georgia man took “hiding out” to a new extreme when Gwinnett County officers discovered him inside an unplugged refrigerator at a vacant apartment.

Police responded to the 1700 Estates Apartments on Tree House Parkway after a neighbor reported banging noises coming from the empty unit.

“When officers searched the apartment, they opened the unplugged refrigerator and found a person hiding inside,” Gwinnett County police Cpl. Ryan Winderweedle said.

The 25-year-old suspect, Jose Quintanilla of Duluth, remained inside the fridge while officers cleared the rest of the apartment. He eventually emerged, explaining, “It’s cold outside.”

The apartment was under renovation at the time. Police reported about $2,000 in damage after Quintanilla pulled electrical wires from newly installed sheetrock.

Winderweedle described the hiding spot as “very unusual,” noting officers search cabinets, closets, and every nook—but apparently the fridge was roomy enough for a secret chill session.

Quintanilla now faces burglary and property damage charges.

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