THREE ALARM FIRE BURNS RESIDENCE

By Jon Mayhew

LINCOLNTON -- A three alarm fire that seriously damaged a house in the 1200 block of Pine Street Sunday night started in the chimney according to authorities.

Around 8:30pm, firefighters from Lincolnton, Boger City and South Fork responded to find smoke and flames coming back from the residence.

Lincolnton Fire Chief Mike Lee told police responding to the scene there wasn't anyone in the residence. The resident called the Lincoln County Communications Center to report the fire and was able to get out of the house safely.

The American Red Cross is assisting the woman and her family with shelter.

The fire was brought under control around 9:15pm.