CALDWELL COUNTY, N.C. — Multiple people are dead after a large fire broke out at a mobile home in Burke County.
Neighbors describe hearing an explosion early Sunday morning along Swink Street. It was followed by the sound of emergency vehicles.
Deputies said one victim, 63-year-old Michael Curtis Hallyburton, was located deceased at the residence. However, the name of the second victim has not been released.
Firefighters, along with the SBI and the fire marshal’s office, are investigating.
Channel 9 has learned they are looking into the possibility that this fire was set.
Bobby Williams will never forget learning his step son, who was a carpenter, died here.
“Policeman woke me up at ten o’clock last night I hate to tell you your son was killed and he didn’t tell me how or nothing,” Williams said.
Neighbor Judy Davis was home at the time of the incident.
“Actually I was sitting and watching TV. I just sat down to watch the TV and heard a big loud boom,” said Davis. “And I got up to look out the window because my daughter lives up there and I was afraid something had happened.”
Davis’ daughter was not in the home that was damaged and was not injured.
“Probably it will take a long time to get over,” Davis said. “It’s really sad. I think I’ve been very upset all day about it because he seemed to be a really nice gentleman whenever I did see him.”
Neighbors said he was an animal lover and owned at least 10 dogs. Burke County Animal Services confirmed they are taking care of them.
It is unclear what led to the blaze.
This is a developing story. Check back with wsoctv.com for updates.
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