The chimney was that of an antebellum home in Natchez. County Sheriff Tommy Ferrell said there was a gift shop in the house back then. Nobody suspects foul play. The case has been closed on Calvin Wilson, age 27. When I heard the story, I wondered the same things you're wondering.
Speculation is that breezes off a nearby river kept people from discovering it.
Perhaps he slipped and suffered a fatal blow to his head when he entered the chimney. Mr. Wilson's story really isn't all that unusual. Every once in a while you read of a person found dead in his house or apartment by the utility company. Payment was overdue. Notices had been sent.