Sumter County Coroner Robbie Baker released the name of the individual who was found deceased in their backyard on Friday, Jan. 17.
Richard Taylor, 74, was pronounced dead at his Cherryvale Drive home after a neighbor found him after they saw smoke, Baker said.
The fire was reported after 6 p.m., and it appears Taylor was burning debris at the time of his death.
It is unknown if Taylor had a medical issue or was overcome by the smoke or fire, Baker said.
Next of kin has been notified and an autopsy is scheduled for Tuesday at Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston.
Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, Sumter County Coroner’s Office and Sumter Fire Department are investigating.
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