DUNN, N.C. — Authorities in Dunn, North Carolina, have released new information in their investigation into a Fourth of July apartment fire that killed a 7-year-old boy and left his stepfather seriously injured.
The child who died has been identified as Cashmere Elijah Parker. His stepfather remains hospitalized as he continues to receive treatment for injuries connected to the fire.
Police said a neighbor, Brittany Armstrong, is facing an involuntary manslaughter charge in connection with the boy’s death. Investigators said the fire was sparked Saturday night by cake-style fireworks, which are illegal in North Carolina. Authorities are still working to determine where the fireworks were purchased.
According to Dunn police, Armstrong has not turned herself in.
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The blaze displaced 13 residents. Property management said four units at the Ashbroke Apartments complex were destroyed.
“Rules are put in place to prevent tragedies such as this,” said a property employee who has worked at Ashbroke Apartments for more than 10 years. The employee, who asked not to be identified, was among the first people to call 911.
The fire broke out just three days after management placed notices on residents’ doors reminding them that grills and fireworks were not allowed on the property.
The Red Cross is helping the affected families as they begin to recover.
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