Family displaced after July 4 fireworks spark Lake Gaston house fire
LAKE GASTON, N.C. (WTVD) -- A family is displaced after an accidental fireworks-related fire destroyed their home near Lake Gaston on the Fourth of July, according to fire officials.
Chief Robby Ross with the Churchill-Five Forks Volunteer Fire Department said crews were dispatched to a structure fire on Hummingbird Lane near Lake Gaston at 9:46 p.m. Friday.
When firefighters arrived, they found heavy fire coming from an attached garage. Officials said the flames had already spread through the garage roof and into the house.
The Churchill-Five Forks Volunteer Fire Department responded along with seven neighboring departments, bringing more than 40 firefighters to the scene. Crews worked for approximately four and a half hours before bringing the fire under control.
Despite the extensive damage, no injuries were reported.
Fire officials said the family was not inside the home when the fire started. The occupants had gone to watch Fourth of July fireworks on the water.
The home was declared a total loss. A family of four, along with one guest staying at the residence, has been displaced. Officials said the occupants are staying with relatives in the area, and assistance from the American Red Cross was not requested.
Following an investigation, officials determined the fire was accidental. The cause was ruled to be improperly discarded fireworks.
