WAKE COUNTY, N.C. — A house fire in Wake County Tuesday morning claimed the lives of three people, including two juveniles, according to officials.
Garner Fire-Rescue interim Chief Barrett Penny said the call came in at 9:38 a.m. for a home located at the corner of Rand and Ten Ten roads. The first crew arrived within five minutes and found heavy smoke coming from the residence. Firefighters from Fairview and Fuquay-Varina assisted in bringing the fire under control.
During a search of the home, authorities discovered the bodies of a man and two juveniles. The Wake County Sheriff’s Office identified the man as 49-year-old Shannon Collins. The identities of the two juveniles, ages 13 and 15, are being withheld at this time.
Two cats were also found dead inside the home, officials confirmed.
The cause and manner of the deaths are still under investigation by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
“The entire sheriff’s office is thinking about and praying for the loved ones of the victims,” said Sheriff Willie Rowe. “A tragedy like this impacts the entire community and we understand there are questions that may arise. Our investigators and partnering agencies are working diligently to conduct a thorough investigation. We ask for your patience as that work continues.”
Chief Penny also expressed condolences, saying, “Our heart goes out to the victims.”
According to public records, the home is owned by Kerrith McDowell, who, neighbors say, lived there with her husband and two sons. McDowell was seen at the scene of the fire, surrounded by Wake County chaplains.
Neighbors told reporters that this was not the first time law enforcement had been called to the home, though no additional details were immediately available.
The investigation remains ongoing.
