LINCOLNTON, N.C. — A house fire that broke out in Lincolnton early Wednesday morning turned deadly after firefighters discovered three victims, including a child.
Lincoln County E911 Communications said the call came in around 2:46 a.m. from Cloudburst Circle, just east of US-321. The caller said people were inside the home, and the North 321 Fire Department found heavy flames throughout. The Maiden, Lincolnton, and Pumpkin Center fire departments aided in getting the scene controlled within 20 minutes.
Two adults and one child were confirmed as the victims. As of publication, their identities have not been shared publicly.
Crews noted that a firefighter was also hurt because of a structural collapse while trying to rescue the victims. He was treated for minor injuries and later released.
Investigators said Thursday the fire was an accident and was caused by improperly discarded smoking materials. The Lincoln County Fire Marshal's Office, Lincoln County EMS, Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, North Carolina State Bureau of Investigations, and North Carolina ATF are assisting in the investigation.
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