CLAYTON COUNTY, Ga. - Two separate fires in Clayton County have left dozens of families without homes just days before Christmas. Tragically, one of the incidents resulted in the death of a woman, fire officials confirmed.

The first fire broke out late Saturday night at the Ashford Apartments on Fayetteville Road. Clayton County Interim Fire Chief said the department received the call just minutes before midnight. When crews arrived, they found multiple apartment units engulfed in flames. Investigators determined the fire started in a second-floor kitchen due to cooking.

While all 29 residents were able to evacuate safely, they are now displaced. The Red Cross is assisting those affected by the fire.

Just three miles away, another fire occurred earlier in the evening at a home on Fayetteville Road. When firefighters arrived, they found a man outside the house with burn injuries and discovered a woman inside who had passed away. The victims are believed to be in their 70s, but the woman's identity has not yet been released. The man was transported to a hospital for treatment.

Both fires were caused by cooking accidents, according to fire officials. The interim fire chief urged the public to practice fire safety when cooking, especially during the holiday season.

"It's a tragedy right here at Christmas," he said. "We send our prayers to the families impacted."

This difficult night for firefighters highlights the importance of staying vigilant while cooking. Authorities recommend keeping an eye on stoves and having a fire extinguisher readily available.

The investigations are ongoing, and updates will be provided as they become available.