LENOIR, N.C. — A man died in an early morning house fire in Lenoir, Lenoir Fire Department officials said.
The fire broke out shortly before midnight Tuesday on Grove Avenue in Lenoir. Police identified the man who died in the fire as Bobby Martin Jr.
Investigators said they believe embers from a wood stove got out, setting fire to some nearby items.
A neighbor shared video after witnessing firefighters going into the home to save the owner.
He described the flames shooting 30 to 40 feet above the home and was driven by strong winds.
The intense heat from that fire caused the siding to melt on a home across the street.
The chief said the man's wife escaped the fire but the husband died after being rescued from the home.
"She heard something fall and she got up and when she got up there was smoke and she started calling for her husband and the smoke was so heavy she had to get out," said John Jernigan, chaplain.
A firefighter was hurt after slipping on a ladder.
The fire chief said the injuries required some stitches but that firefighter will be OK.
Lori Estes watched as firefighters risked their lives to save a man trapped inside the home.
"They didn't hesitate,” Estes said. “I'm very proud that they put their lives on the line and take care of us."
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