The Hickory Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 703 7th Ave SW this morning.
Firefighters were dispatched just before 10:30 a.m. Multiple engines responded. Upon arrival, crews found a residential structure heavily involved in fire. Firefighters worked quickly to assess the conditions and extinguish the fire.
Five people were residing in the home at the time of the fire. All five were able to safely evacuate the residence. The family had multiple pets, some were successfully rescued, while others died in the fire. The American Red Cross is assisting the affected family with immediate needs following the fire.
The Hickory Police Department assisted firefighters with traffic control in the area, helping to maintain a safe scene for emergency personnel. The Long View Fire Department provided assistance to the Hickory Fire crews at the scene and Catawba County EMS also responded and provided rehabilitation services for personnel operating in the incident. The Hickory Fire Marshall’s Office investigated the fire and determined the fire to be an electrical malfunction.
Story: Rob Eastwood-WHKY