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He died in a sweltering house. Why doesn't his death record show it?

Sep 2, 2026 · Alejandra Borunda

Originally published by NPR News Read the original

He died in a sweltering house. Why doesn't his death record show it?
Debbie Willson holds a photo of her son, Adam Willson, who died in June 2024. Debbie is sure his death was influenced by heat, but his death certificate doesn
Debbie Willson holds a photo of her son, Adam Willson, who died in June 2024. Debbie is sure his death was influenced by heat, but his death certificate doesn

When Arizona counts heat-related deaths, Adam Willson isn't included. His story shows how thousands of heat deaths can go uncounted every year in the United States.

(Image credit: Ryan Kellman)

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