WOMAN DIES IN HOUSE FIRE SATURDAY IN GUMLOG COMMUNITY – FAMILY HOMELESS

The blaze broke out Saturday morning at a home on Buttercup Lane in the Gumlog Community.

According to Clayton Bryant, the Franklin County Coronor on duty, the home was occupied by a retired couple, their two grandchildren, and a female guest when the fire started. The couple and two children, ages 6 & 7, were able to escape but the female guest died as a result of the fire.

The name of the woman has not been released pending verification of her identity and notification of family members.

Investigators with the State Fire Marshal’s office were called in and so far, the exact cause of the fire has not been determined.

Gumlog, Line, and Lavonia Fire Departments responded.

According to Bryant, the home was completely destroyed and the couple and two children lost everything but their car and what they were wearing when they escaped.

All four were taken to St. Mary’s Sacred Heart Hospital for an evaluation immediately after the fire.

The Rev. Brandon Crunkleton is the pastor of Broad River Baptist Church and is spearheading an effort to help the family. Rev. Crunkleton tells WLHR News employees at Sacred Heart Hospital were able to provide gifts for the children on Christmas Eve.

However, he said the effort to help the family continues. Anyone who would like to donate items or can help with housing is asked to contact Rev. Crunkleton at 706-491-0945.

WLHR News will continue to follow this story and bring you more information as it becomes available.