The Kinston Department of Fire and Rescue was dispatched to 1006 Clifton Terrace at 8:45 AM on September 8th, in reference to a Structure Fire. Kinston Police Officers and Kinston Fire crews arrived quickly to the scene. Kinston Department of Fire and Rescue, had a rapid knock down and control of the fire. Also assisting with fire control efforts were Hugo Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company and North Lenoir Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company. Lenoir County Emergency Medical Services set up a rehab area for the firefighters during the incident. The only resident of the home, whom had already succumbed to smoke inhalation prior to the firefighter’s arrival was quickly located and removed.

Family of the victim was contacted and informed of the passing of their family member. A joint effort origin and cause fire investigation with the North Carolina State Investigations Bureau, North Carolina Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Kinston Department of Fire and Rescue’s Origin and Cause Fire Investigation Team was thoroughly conducted after the fire was extinguished. The origin of the fire was located in the main bedroom of the residence. The cause of the fire was determined to be an accidental electrical fire due to an overloaded, improperly used small drop cord.