Mother seeks answers after aspiring rapper found dead inside NYC school chimney

A New York mother is seeking answers after her son, Matthew Collado, 29, was found dead inside a chimney at P.S. 113 in Glendale, Queens on June 30. Collado vanished in early May, after failing to meet his mother, Sophia Wood, for a planned Mother’s Day visit, according to CBS New York.

Wood said she last heard from her son on May 9. Surveillance footage obtained by the outlet later showed him leaving his Jamaica apartment just after 3 a.m., the final time he was seen alive. His wallet and phone were found inside the apartment, prompting the family to file a missing person report on May 13.

Gruesome Discovery Inside School Chimney

Weeks passed with no leads. Then, in late June, an exterminator investigating a foul odor at P.S. 113 discovered human remains lodged inside the school’s chimney. Police launched an investigation and began forensic testing. After three weeks, dental records confirmed the remains were Collado.

His mother told CBS New York the discovery made no sense, describing the situation as “strange” and “uncharacteristic.” She said the news left her stunned, confused, and desperate for clarity.

Mystery Deepens as Collado’s Family Rejects Chimney Scenario

Collado’s family remains baffled by how he ended up inside the chimney. According to VICE, Collado, an aspiring rapper known as A.K.NASH, was afraid of heights and disliked smoke, making the chimney location even more puzzling. His mother said the scenario “doesn’t jive” with who her son was.

She also noted he was preparing to start a new job as a residential aide and had been in regular contact with family, making his disappearance even more alarming. Neighbors described him as friendly, upbeat, and well‑liked.

Cause of Death Still Under Investigation

The New York City Medical Examiner’s Office has not determined Collado’s cause or manner of death. Police say the investigation remains active. Wood believes someone knows what happened and hopes they come forward. She described the ordeal as a “nightmare” and said she feels “bamboozled” by the lack of answers.