HALSTEAD, Kan. — A Halstead man died hours after being burned in a grass fire. Authorities say 81-year old Fred Rodenberg suffered 4th and 5th degree burns to at least 50 percent of his body.

Rodenberg was burning limbs and brush around noon Thursday, when some nearby grass caught fire. Rodenberg tried to stomp out the flames, but ignited his clothing. His grandson, who was nearby, called for help, then tried to put the fire out, but Rodenberg’s clothing reignited several times. Eventually, Halstead firefighters put out the fire.

Rodenberg was airlifted to St. Francis Regional Medical Center where he later died.