The Anderson County Coroner’s Office is investigating after a man died following a backyard fire Wednesday evening in Piedmont.
According to officials, Anderson County dispatch received a call at approximately 6:40 p.m. reporting a grass fire on Grantham Road. When emergency responders arrived, they found homeowners attempting to extinguish a fire in the backyard that had spread beyond control.
Authorities said one individual was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation before being transported to Prisma Health Greenville for further medical care. Despite treatment, the individual later died at the hospital.
The victim has been identified as 27-year-old John Robert Simpson of Piedmont. The Anderson County Coroner’s Office determined the cause of deceased to be exacerbation of asthma due to smoke inhalation. The manner of his passing was ruled accidental.
Officials have not released additional details regarding how the fire began. The Anderson County Coroner’s Office confirmed that the incident remains under investigation as authorities review the circumstances surrounding the fire.
Emergency responders remind residents to exercise caution when managing outdoor fires and to monitor weather and environmental conditions that may increase the risk of flames spreading. Authorities also encourage individuals with respiratory conditions to take added precautions around smoke and open flames.
Further updates will be shared if more information becomes available.
