Isaac B. Hancock, 53, a well-known figure in Baltimore's homeless community, died from a combination of the subfreezing weather and alcohol, the state Medical Examiner's Office said yesterday after an autopsy.

Hancock's body was found by police yesterday morning in the back of the 1200 block of E. Fayette St. His only protection against the cold was a thin jacket, police said.

Hancock was an Army veteran, a relative said, and he usually sought protection against the elements in one of the city's shelters for the homeless.

Acquaintances said they don't know why he didn't go to a shelter. Two were nearby, including one with 75 empty beds.

Hancock once drove a truck and occasionally earned money doing odd jobs, police were told.