Authorities have identified one of the victims in a tragic house fire that occurred Sunday afternoon, August 31, on Swink Street in the Antioch community of Morganton. Michael Curtis Hallyburton, 63, of Morganton, was found deceased at the residence. The identity of the second victim remains pending confirmation following an autopsy.
The Burke County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the Burke County Fire Marshal’s Office, State Bureau of Investigation, and multiple local and federal agencies, continues to investigate the cause of the fire and the circumstances surrounding the fatalities. Sheriff Robert “Banks” Hinceman emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and that no further details will be released at this time.
Emergency responders from numerous departments, including Burke County EMS, Drexel Fire Department, Triple Community Fire Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service, worked throughout Sunday evening to contain the fire and manage the scene. Animal services also took custody of several dogs found at the residence, with no injuries reported.
Officials have urged the public to avoid sharing identifying information to maintain the integrity of the investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact investigators at 828-764-9558.
The community continues to mourn this devastating loss as authorities work to determine the cause of the fire.
