Morrisville Resident Finds Rabbits Safe After Apartment Fire

Christine Council's pets survived the massive blaze that displaced 70 people.

Feb. 25, 2026 at 8:03pm

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When a massive fire ripped through Christine Council's apartment building in Morrisville, North Carolina, she was devastated at the thought of losing her two pet rabbits, Peanut Creampuff and Leonard. However, against all odds, the rabbits were found safe and unharmed, hidden under drywall that had fallen during the fire.

Why it matters

The fire at the Camden Westwood Apartments in Morrisville caused significant damage and displaced 70 residents. While the cause of the fire is still under investigation, the incident highlights the importance of fire safety, especially in apartment complexes where many people live in close proximity.

The details

The fire started on a first-floor outdoor balcony and quickly spread, fueled by strong winds. Despite the extensive damage, Council's rabbits were miraculously found safe, having hidden themselves under fallen drywall. Council, a flight attendant who was out of town when the fire broke out, was overjoyed to learn her beloved pets had survived.

  • The fire broke out on Monday.
  • The fire took about four hours to be put out.
  • As of Wednesday, the cause of the fire was still undetermined.

The players

Christine Council

A Morrisville resident and flight attendant whose apartment was destroyed in the fire, but whose two pet rabbits, Peanut Creampuff and Leonard, were found safe and unharmed.

Thomas Dooley Jr.

The Morrisville Fire Chief, who stated that the fire started on a first-floor outdoor balcony and that the balconies did not have sprinklers, which contributed to the fire's rapid spread.

Camden Westwood Apartments

The apartment complex in Morrisville where the massive fire occurred, displacing 70 residents.

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What they’re saying

“Of course, I'm upset about the loss of things, but my rabbits are my babies.”

— Christine Council

“It was a miracle. They were hiding because they knew to keep themselves hidden, because that's what rabbits do, they hide. I cried.”

— Christine Council

What’s next

The Morrisville Fire Department is continuing to investigate the cause of the fire, and the Camden Westwood Apartments management is working to assist displaced residents in finding temporary housing.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fire safety, especially in multi-unit residential buildings. The fact that Christine Council's rabbits were found safe and unharmed is a testament to the resilience of animals and the power of community support in the face of such a devastating event.