Eastman woman dies after house fire on Ben Giddens Road

The Eastman Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire on Ben Giddens Road around 7:44 p.m. Saturday.

EASTMAN, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — An Eastman woman died one day after firefighters rescued her from a burning home Saturday evening, according to city officials.

The Eastman Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire on Ben Giddens Road around 7:44 p.m. Saturday, September 19. Firefighters were told one person was still inside the home.

Upon arrival, firefighters entered the residence, found Sally Payne and successfully removed her from the home. Payne was then transferred to Dodge County EMS for further evaluation and care.

Payne died the following day from smoke inhalation complicated by health issues related to hospice care, according to the Dodge County coroner.

The City of Eastman extended its condolences to Payne’s family and loved ones and asked that their privacy be respected.

The fire has been turned over to the Georgia State Fire Marshal’s Office for further investigation.