COVINGTON, Ga. – Newton County recorded its only fire death of 2018 last month when house fire on Countryside Lane claimed the life of a 77-year-old man.

According to Newton County Fire Services deputy chief Brad Stapp, firefighters were dispatched to the home at 165 Countryside Lane on the report of a fire Dec. 14 at approximately 8:45 p.m. Stapp said while they were enroute firefighters were advised that the house could be occupied.

Fire units found flames showing when they got to the scene. The victim, identified as Charles James Dyes, had reportedly been found unconscious on the floor of the burning house by neighbors who pulled him out and started CPR.

Stapp said Dyes was transported to Piedmont Newton Hospital where he died. Firefighters were able to knock down and extinguish the fire, which Stapp said was determined to be accidental. According to the fire report, there were no other injuries reported.

Newton County coroner Tommy Davis ruled Dyes’ death accidental due to smoke inhalation.