One person was killed in a structure fire early this morning (August 14) in Morganton. The deceased is 43-year-old Bon Alexander Stroupe.

At about 12:21 a.m. today, Burke County Emergency Communications dispatched the Salem Fire Department to a reported occupied structure fire at 3335 Port Street in Morganton. Firefighters found a brick home with heavy smoke visible. Residents confirmed that one person was still inside.
Firefighters made entry and pulled the victim from the structure. Paramedics on scene were unsuccessful in resuscitation efforts. Mr. Stroupe was pronounced dead at the scene. No other injuries were reported.

Firefighters from four Burke County fire departments responded with equipment and manpower to extinguish the fire. Burke County E.M.S. also responded. Firefighters were able to contain the fire in approximately 30 minutes.

The Burke County Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the fire in conjunction with the Burke County Sheriff’s Office and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. The cause of the fire is under investigation. The cause of death will be determined by the Medical Examiner following their investigation.