Coroner: Man dies in Byron house fire

The Peach County Coroner says a house fire claimed the life of 53-year-old Matthew David Austin on Monday morning.

BYRON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — A house fire claimed the life of 53-year-old Matthew David Austin on Monday morning.

According to Peach County Coroner Kerry Rooks, the fire started just after 4 a.m. at a home located at 340 Giles Road in Byron. Austin was pronounced dead at the scene due to smoke inhalation.

A second occupant, identified as Austin’s girlfriend and the owner of the house, managed to escape. However, Austin became trapped in the rear of the home.

The State Fire Marshal’s office has launched an investigation, although preliminary indications suggest the fire will likely be ruled accidental.