MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (AP) -- A neighbor and firefighters tried to save a 39-year-old man caught in a fire at his home but couldn't get to him, authorities say.

Charles Flaim III was killed in the blaze that appeared to start in the living room of his Wampee home around 6:45 a.m. Monday, firefighters said.

Three other people escaped. The cause of the fire has not been determined, authorities said.

One of Flaim's neighbors said he broke several windows and kicked in the back door, but the smoke was too thick to get inside.

Horry County firefighters also said they tried three times to retrieve Flaim but couldn't get to him.