More than 20 dogs, 2 people rescued from house fire

SWANSBORO, N.C. (WITN/Gray News) - Two people and more than 20 dogs were rescued after a heavy fire broke out at a home in North Carolina, officials said.

Officials said the house fire drew a multi-agency response.

The Swansboro Fire Department was dispatched to the home at approximately 12:38 p.m. on Sunday.

While responding, crews observed a visible column of smoke from the general vicinity of the call, and 911 dispatchers began receiving additional calls reporting the fire. Responders arrived to find the single-story home with heavy fire showing.

Officials said two people were rescued from the house. Crews also found 24 dogs inside the home. Two of the dogs were taken to a veterinary facility for emergency treatment. One of those dogs died, and the second remains under veterinary care, officials said.

“Our thoughts are with the owners following their loss, and we are grateful to everyone who assisted with the care and handling of the animals during the incident,” the Swansboro Fire Department said in a statement.

Officials say the cause of the fire remains under investigation.