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John Hollenhorst ReportingAn exclusive story we told you about last night on KSL has stirred up a phenomenal amount of interest across the country. Computer networks were humming all day and comedians were preparing their monologues on an Ogden townhouse filled with tens of thousands of empty beer cans.
When property manager Ryan Froerer visited this townhouse last year, and then went back with us on Wednesday, he had no idea he was triggering an explosion of national interest. But according KSL's webmaster, he certainly did. Internet traffic shot through the roof.
Steve Bergen, KSL Webmaster: "I knew it would get a big response, but I don't think any of us anticipated it would be this big."
The photos Froerer took are suddenly famous. He documented empty beer cans piled deep, by a man who apparently lived there alone for eight years. We estimated there were 70,000 cans.
The bizarre story captured the attention of web bloggers including humorist Dave Barry and politico Matt Drudge. When they linked to our story, it brought in what may be the biggest volume ever at KSL.COM
Steve Bergen: "This kind of caught us a little bit by surprise. And it's caused a few little hiccups here and there, but people have been able to get to the story."
Here at KSL the comments that have come into our website have run the gamut, from mockery of the man's situation to compassion for his personal troubles.
The Today show carried a report and Jay Leno's producers called for more information on the strange story of the townhouse.
Steve Bergen: "I think the main appeal is the fact that we have the photos of it, actual physical evidence. It isn't just Internet lore or something, this actually happened."
And, yes, right here in Utah, as the comedians will surely point out.
KSL's estimate of 70,000 cans was based on the weight of the cans, more than 2,200 pounds. Workers at the recycling center told us that one pound of Coors Lite empties is approximately 33 cans.
