Fatal Structure Fire – Old Charlotte Road
Statesville, NC - January 17, 2024 - On January 16, 2024, at approximately 5:00 PM, the Statesville Fire Department responded to an emergency call concerning a house fire at 1305 Old Charlotte Road, involving an abandoned residence. Upon arrival on the scene, firefighters were met with visible smoke and flames coming from the structure. Through their swift and coordinated efforts, the fire was successfully brought under control within just 20 minutes.
During the fire suppression operation, firefighters discovered a male individual in the rear of the home. Firefighters rescued the victim from the premises and initiated life-saving procedures with the assistance of Iredell County EMS. Despite their efforts, the victim, identified as William De Giovanti Shalima Watkins, age 68, succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
The Statesville Police Department arrived at the scene to provide support for the ongoing investigation. Preliminary examinations have revealed that Mr. Watkins initiated the fire within the residence, ultimately becoming trapped as the fire escalated beyond control. The house, which had been vacant for several months, was boarded up at the time of the incident.
In the interest of a thorough inquiry into the incident, the NC Office of State Fire Marshal was called to collaborate with the Statesville Fire Marshal’s Office on the fire investigation. Following an examination, the cause of the fire has been determined to be accidental.
The Medical Examiner was called to the scene and determined that Mr. Watkins' passing was not of a suspicious nature, attributing it to smoke inhalation.
The City of Statesville extends its heartfelt gratitude to the collective efforts of the Statesville Police Department, Statesville Fire Department, Iredell County EMS, and the NC Office of State Fire Marshal.
During this difficult time, we wish to express our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim. Our thoughts and support are with them as they navigate through this trying period.
About the City of Statesville
The City of Statesville is truly a diverse community that welcomes new people, new voices and ideas, new industry, and business. We have already made significant investments in our downtown amenities, our business sector, our schools, our infrastructure, and more is on the horizon. We are creating a dynamic future for ourselves as we build on our successful history and the positive energy we experience today, all the while incorporating the values and quality of life that we cherish. To learn more visit www.statesvillenc.net.
