The Johnston County Sheriff’s Office announced Monday a juvenile playing with a lighter was the point of origin for a fatal house fire near Kenly on Sunday morning that claimed 2 lives and injured 3 others.
Around 10:57am, emergency crews responded to the fire at 1592 Beulahtown Road.
David William Creech, 37, and his 2 year-old son, Matthew Creech, were found dead inside the home as a result of injuries sustained in the fire.
Three others were transported to UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill for treatment. They included Serna Brock, 36, the girlfriend of David Creech, and his two sons, 10 year-old Johnny Creech and 3 year-old Bryson Creech. All three were listed in serious but stable condition on Monday.
Officials believe the fire was intentionally set by a juvenile playing with a lighter. The point of origin was in a toddlers bed. The investigation is still ongoing but no criminal act is believed to have occurred, according to a press release.
The Johnston County Sheriff’s Office is being assisted by Johnston County Emergency Services Fire Marshal Division, NC SBI and ATF Fire investigators.
The last fatal house fire in Johnston County was near Archer Lodge in December 2017. Photos by John Payne
