FROM STAFF REPORTS

Investigators have identified a man who died in a fire in an abandoned home off Old Charlotte Road in Statesville on Tuesday.

William De Giovanti Shalima Watkins, 68, succumbed to his injuries at the scene of the fire at 1305 Old Mountain Road despite the efforts of first responders to save his life.

Statesville Fire Department personnel responded to the scene about 5 p.m. Tuesday after receiving a report about a house fire. Firefighters encountered visible smoke and flames coming from the home when they arrived. The fire was brought under control within 20 minutes.

During the fire-suppression operation, firefighters found Watkins in the rear of the home, according to a news release.

The Statesville Police Department arrived at the scene to provide support for the ongoing investigation. A preliminary investigation revealed that Watkins started the fire within the residence and became trapped as the fire spread.

The house, which had been vacant for several months, was boarded up at the time of the fire, according to the news news release.

Investigators with the N.C. Office of State Fire Marshal and the Statesville Fire Marshal’s Office determined the fire was accidental.

The Medical Examiner was called to the scene and determined that Watkins’ death was caused by smoke inhalation and was not of a suspicious nature.

The City of Statesville expressed its appreciation for the collective efforts of the Statesville Police Department, Statesville Fire Department, Iredell County EMS, and the N.C. Office of State Fire Marshal.

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