On Friday afternoon, June 10th, 2022, La Grange Volunteer Fire Department, North Lenoir Fire & Rescue, and the NC Forest Service were dispatched to 4871 Bulltown Road in La Grange, NC for a brush fire approaching a structure containing commercial-grade fireworks.

Upon arrival, firefighters found a large brush fire approaching a structure and the property owner, Randy Herring, working to extinguish the fire. An explosion occurred, wounding three firefighters and the property owner. The three injured firefighters were transported from the scene to ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville, NC to be treated for their injuries. Two of the three firefighters have been released from the hospital, and one firefighter was transported to the NC Jaycee Burn Center in Chapel Hill for further treatment. Unfortunately, Randy Herring succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

Fire departments from Lenoir County, Wayne County, Johnston County and Duplin County have been working through the night to contain the fire and fully extinguish hot spots. Additional manpower and support have been provided by Duplin County and Jones County.

The Lenoir County Fire Marshal’s Office is coordinating the investigation with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, the North Carolina Office of the State Fire Marshal, the NC Forest Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.