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Fatal Fire In Burke County Now Being Investigated As Double-Homicide

September 5, 2025 By Richard C. Gilbert

A fire in Burke County that resulted in two deaths on Sunday, August 31st is now being investigated as a double-homicide. The blaze occurred at a home on Swink Street in the Antioch section of the county.

The second victim has been identified as 76-year-old Joseph Kincaid Byrd, Jr. of Morganton. 63-year-old Michael Curtis Hallyburton of Morganton was previously identified as a victim. He was found deceased inside the residence. The Burke County Sheriff’s Office says the investigation is ongoing and additional information will be released as necessary.

Anyone with information related to the incident, please call 828-764-9530 or use the Sheriff’s App to submit a tip.

Further updates will be released as new information becomes available.

WHKY’s Rob Eastwood contributed to this story

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