LUMBERTON, NC (WBTW) – Two elderly people are in critical condition after an early morning house fire, the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office reports.
At about 2 a.m. on Wednesday, emergency workers were called to a structure fire on the 400 block of Ira Road in Lumberton.
Rescue workers found the couple still inside the home. Deputies later identified the two injured victims as 74-year-old Larry Locklear and 75-year-old Nedra Cummings.
They were removed from the home by neighbor Charles Jones as first responders arrived. The victims were taken to area hospitals for treatment, according to the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office.
Both people are still listed in critical condition as of 6:30 p.m., the office reports.
Jones was treated for smoke inhalation at Southeastern Medical Center.
Deputies say Jones’ bravery was a ‘key factor’ during the event.
The fire appears to be accidental, according to the RCSO, although the department will continue to investigate.