Smithfield Man Dies In Overnight House Fire

SMITHFIELD — A West Smithfield man died late Thursday in a house fire.

Around 11:08 p.m., a Smithfield police officer on routine patrol spotted smoke and flames coming from a residence on Castle Drive. The officer radioed for the fire department and attempted to enter the home, but was forced back by intense heat and flames.

Firefighters arrived and extinguished the blaze. The victim was found near a rear door of the home and was pronounced dead at the scene. He was identified as 71-year-old Michael Jernigan.

The Johnston County Fire Marshal’s Office is assisting the Smithfield Police Department with the investigation.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation but is believed to be accidental, originating in the kitchen area, officials said.