One dead following house fire in Indian Trail

UNION COUNTY, N.C. — A man died following a house fire that took place early Sunday morning in Indian Trail.

Around 3 a.m., deputies and first responders responded to a reported house fire in the 5600 block of Secrest Shortcut Road.

Upon arrival, they saw that half of the residence was engulfed in flames. While on the scene, deputies heard a woman screaming from inside the home. They were able to get her out of the house.

When firefighters entered the home, they found a man in the area where the fire was most intense. Life-saving measures were initiated once he was removed from the residence.

Both of the occupants of the house were transported to a nearby hospital. There, the 59-year-old man succumbed to his injuries.

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According to Jon Williams, the Union County Fire Marshal, the cause of the fire was determined to be discarded smoking materials in the room where the man was located.

“We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss on Easter Sunday,” said Williams. “I’m thankful for the deputies’ quick actions to save one of the occupants. This serves as a solemn reminder of how quickly fires can become life-threatening. We urge all residents to ensure their home has working smoke alarms, ensure cigarettes and smoking materials are fully extinguished, and to practice fire safety year-round.”

“This is a heartbreaking tragedy for our community. We are grateful for the swift actions of our deputies and first responders, but our thoughts and prayers are with the victim’s family and loved ones during this difficult time,” said Union County Sheriff Eddie Cathey.

This is an ongoing investigation.

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