Two dead, firefighter hurt in east Charlotte house fire

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Two people are dead and a firefighter is recovering after crews battled a house fire in east Charlotte on Saturday morning.

Charlotte Fire said firefighters were called to a home on Donnefield Drive near Lawyers Road around 7 a.m.

The home was engulfed in heavy smoke and fire upon arrival. Firefighters attempted a search for any occupants but evacuated around 7:13 a.m. due to the “deteriorating structural integrity of the home.” They then used an aerial water fire to prevent further spread.

Thirty firefighters were able to control the fire in approximately 90 minutes.

CFD said one resident safely exited the home and was evaluated for smoke inhalation. They also said a firefighter sustained a non-life-threatening injury while battling the fire. The firefighter is expected to make a full recovery.

Once the fire was under control, firefighters entered the home and found two people dead inside.

“Our firefighters worked tirelessly under extremely hazardous conditions to bring this fire under control,” said Charlotte Fire Chief Reginald Johnson. “This tragic loss of life is deeply felt by our department and the community. Our thoughts are with the victims’ families.”

Medic said two others were transported to the hospital from the scene, one with minor injuries and the other with life-threatening injuries. 

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.