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Friday, May. 01, 2009

GBI investigating Dodge County killing, fire

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is looking into an Eastman homicide from last weekend.

GBI Special Agent Greg Harvey said Thursday that a fire was reported at 6026 Leitch St. in Eastman on Saturday night. After fire officials responded to the call, human remains were found at the residence.

Harvey said the victim has been identified as Ricky Edward Payne, 49, who lived at another residence on Leitch Street. Payne was identified from fingerprints, he said.

Citing the ongoing investigation, Harvey wouldn’t say whether Payne was killed in the fire or killed before it, with the fire being set to cover up the crime.

Harvey said the renters of the house were out for the evening and Payne was at the residence watching TV when they left.

Harvey wouldn’t comment on the possible motive or what leads investigators are pursuing.

“We’re looking into every possible angle,” Harvey said.

Harvey said the living room of the house sustained heavy damage from the fire, but the rest of the house received only minor damage.

Harvey urged anyone with information to call the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office at (478) 374-8131 or the GBI at (478) 374-6988.