Massive Fire Destroys Approx. 5 Homes in Surf City, North Carolina
SURF CITY, N.C. — A massive fire tore through a coastal neighborhood in Surf City on Friday evening, destroying multiple homes and sending thick plumes of black smoke into the sky.
According to eyewitnesses and early social media reports, the blaze broke out near the Trailer Bar along the main strip, quickly spreading to approximately five houses before emergency crews arrived.
Residents reported hearing loud noises before flames engulfed several structures. Images shared on Facebook by local page Royal A Feathers showed towering flames consuming elevated beach homes as neighbors watched helplessly from the street.
Residents Escape as Homes Burn
One homeowner, Kristin McQueen, confirmed in a public post that her house was among those destroyed in the fire.
“This is my house. My brother and I co-own it,” McQueen wrote. “He and his dog made it out safely.”
The comment section of the post filled with messages of support and shock as the community rallied around the victims.
Unconfirmed Reports of Possible Cause
Witnesses online suggested the fire may have been sparked by a man identified only as Zachary Dean Soles, though this claim has not been verified by authorities. One commenter alleged that “he went off his rockers, something to do with propane,” though investigators have not released any official cause of the blaze.
Surf City emergency officials have not yet provided a formal statement on the number of structures lost or the possible origin of the fire. As of Friday night, crews remained at the scene working to contain hotspots and assess the damage.
Community Reaction and Fire Response
The fire drew a large crowd of residents who stood nearby as firefighters worked to prevent further spread. Witnesses described flames visible from blocks away and billowing smoke seen over the Intracoastal Waterway.
Local emergency services urged residents to avoid the area as roads were temporarily closed for safety and cleanup operations.
Investigation Underway
Authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the fire, including whether propane tanks or other accelerants contributed to its rapid spread. Officials are also assessing the total number of structures affected and working with displaced residents to arrange temporary housing.
A Tight-Knit Community in Shock
Surf City, known for its close-knit community and beachfront homes, has experienced fires before, but locals say this was one of the most devastating in years.
“You could feel the heat from the other side of the street,” one witness wrote. “It all happened so fast — people were just trying to make sure everyone got out.”
No injuries or fatalities have been reported at this time.
The Pender County Fire Marshal’s Office and Surf City Fire Department are expected to release more details in the coming days as the investigation continues.
For updates on this developing story, stay with SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
