A Valentine’s Day blaze in Kinston caught the attention of residents as smoke billowed from a structure fire around lunchtime. Social media quickly buzzed with speculation about the source of the flames, but it was all part of a preplanned training exercise by the Kinston Department of Fire & Rescue.

"The Kinston Department of Fire & Rescue will conduct live fire training on February 14th from 0800 hours through 1700 hours. Our training event will be held at 103 Wilson Ave. This event will cause road closures," the department announced in advance.

Despite multiple warnings on social media from the City of Kinston and emergency services, some residents were still caught off guard when they saw the smoke. Road closures were in effect throughout the day at Wilson Ave at N Queen St, Wilson Ave at Virginia Ave, and Wilson Ave at McAdoo St.