Man Killed in Hartwell Mobile Home Fire

ATLANTA – Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John F. King announced today that John David Yates, 58, passed away in a deadly fire in Hart County on Sunday, December 6. The fire occurred around 6:00 p.m. at 64 Marshal Dove Road in Hartwell.

Upon arriving to the 40-year-old, 900-square-foot mobile home, local firefighters found the home in flames and Mr. Yates’ body inside the residence. His body has been sent to the GBI Crime Lab for an autopsy.

“This fire is still under investigation, but there is reason to believe that poorly-positioned space heaters could have caused the deadly fire,” said Commissioner King. “Unfortunately, our office sees an increase in fires due to space heaters as we head into colder weather. It is crucial for Georgians to follow safety tips such as keeping their space heater away from combustible materials.”

Commissioner King’s State Fire Investigation is continuing to work with the Hart County Fire Department, Hart County Sheriff’s Office, and Hart County Coroner’s Office on this case. All authorities involved send their thoughts and prayers to the victim’s family. This marks the 86th fire fatality in Georgia for 2020. 

###

The mission of the Office of the Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner is to protect Georgia families by providing access to vital insurance products and safe buildings through fair regulation that creates economic opportunities for all Georgians.