Two killed in Wilson County house fire

Fire officials say cause of blaze is under investigation

Mar. 14, 2026 at 2:52am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Officials said William Bullock, 71, and Brenda Bullock, 70, died after a house fire on Friday in Wilson County, North Carolina. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Why it matters

House fires are a leading cause of accidental deaths in the United States, and investigations into the cause are critical to prevent future tragedies and ensure public safety.

The details

Crews were called just after 7:30 a.m. to reports of a fire at a home on Brewer Court. Fire Chief Phil Batts of the Silver Lake Volunteer Fire Department said crews found the two victims dead inside the home. It took about 30 minutes for firefighters to get the fire under control.

  • The fire occurred on Friday, March 14, 2026.

The players

William Bullock

A 71-year-old resident who died in the house fire.

Brenda Bullock

A 70-year-old resident who died in the house fire.

Phil Batts

The fire chief of the Silver Lake Volunteer Fire Department who responded to the incident.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The North Carolina Office of the State Fire Marshall, Wilson County Sheriff's Office and North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation are investigating the cause of the fire.

The takeaway

Tragic house fires like this one underscore the importance of fire safety education, smoke alarm installation, and timely emergency response to save lives and prevent future tragedies.