York County family ‘lost everything’ in house fire near Catawba River

A York County family, including two children, is displaced and lost their possessions after a fire demolished their home near the Catawba River, officials said.

The fire was in the 900 block of Rowells Road in Catawba.

Lesslie and Oakdale fire departments responded. Firefighters fought the blaze from around 11:30 p.m. Monday until almost 4 a.m. Tuesday, said Tommy White, Lesslie Fire Department chief. The house is a total loss, White said.

“They appear to have lost everything,” White said.

There were three adults and two children home at the time of the fire. Homeowner Morrison Belk said his daughter suffered minor burns and one of two grandchildren in the home had some smoke inhalation.

Belk said he expects his family to recover from their injuries. His daughter was hospitalized with her burns, Belk said.

“We are all thankful that everyone got out,” Belk said. “I talked to my daughter and grandchild, and we expect them to be fine.”

Belk, who works at the New Indy plant near his home that used to by the Bowater paper mill, said his wife woke him up.

“She was screaming. I thought I was dreaming,” Belk said.

Belk said when he went into the hallway and then downstairs, the thick smoke was difficult to navigate through but he was able to get his family outside. Belk then poured water on the fire with a garden hose.

Firefighters arrived but the fire engulfed much of the home.

“What matters is my family is safe,” Belk said.

The family has insurance on the home. Belk’s co-workers have offered clothing and other items, and family and friends have generously offered to help, Belk said.

Many people stopped by the home Tuesday to offer support, help, prayers and fellowship.

The fire remains under investigation by the York County Fire Marshal’s Office. Belk said he was told by fire officials that the fire was believed to have been electrical and started near the front porch.

This story was originally published March 19, 2019 at 9:06 AM.