The state fire marshal is investigating a house fire in Evans County Monday that took the life of an elderly man.

Evans County Deputy Fire Chief Jason Stone said Vance Lee Smith Jr., 76, died trying to escape the blaze, which occurred around 9:50 a.m. at his Canoochee Properties home on Riverside Drive near Claxton.

According to reports, Smith's daughter, who lives next door, had just taken him breakfast and left the home when she heard him call for help and saw the fire.

Stone said firefighters' response to the blaze was hampered by road conditions and water in the road and yard, caused by recent heavy rains.

The cause of the blaze is currently unknown, and the investigation was turned over to the state fire marshal's office.

No other injuries were reported.

Holli Deal Bragg may be reached at (912) 489-9414.