Anderson County Incident: John Robert Simpson of Piedmont, SC Dies Following Medical Emergency
ANDERSON COUNTY SOUTH CAROLINA, A 27-year-old man from Piedmont died following a backyard grass fire that spread beyond control Wednesday evening, according to the Anderson County Coroner’s Office.
Anderson County Coroner Greg Shore confirmed that the office is investigating the death of John Robert Simpson, who was treated for smoke inhalation after the incident and later passed away at the hospital.
Grass Fire Reported on Grantham Road
Authorities stated that Anderson County 911 received a call at approximately 6:40 p.m. reporting a grass fire in the backyard of a home on Grantham Road in Piedmont.
When emergency crews arrived, they found residents attempting to put out a fire that had extended beyond their control. First responders provided medical assistance at the scene to an individual experiencing smoke inhalation. That individual was later identified as Simpson and was transported to Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital for additional treatment.
Despite medical intervention, Simpson was pronounced deceased at approximately 8:00 p.m.
Cause of Death Ruled Accidental
The coroner’s office determined that Simpson’s death resulted from an asthma exacerbation brought on by smoke exposure. The manner of death has been officially ruled accidental.
Officials have not reported any additional injuries. The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Ongoing Investigation
The Anderson County Coroner’s Office continues to review the circumstances surrounding the incident in coordination with emergency personnel. Authorities are reminding residents to exercise caution when managing outdoor fires, particularly during dry weather conditions.
The incident serves as a reminder of how quickly grass fires can escalate and the serious health risks smoke exposure may present, especially for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
