by FireRescue1 Staff
CATAWBA COUNTY, N.C. — More than a dozen fire departments responded to a massive fire at a historic religious campground in Catawba County.
According to WCNC, at least 14 emergency crews responded to a fire at Balls Creek Campground on Sunday. Out of 295 cabins, the fire destroyed 40 and damaged nine others. No injuries were reported.
he Balls Creek Campground was founded in 1853, and the cabins, known as “tents,” have been passed down through family generations. The campground’s history has prompted officials to open a joint task force investigation into the cause of the fire.
“Because of the historic and religious significance of Balls Creek Campground, the investigation in the cause of the fire is being handled by a joint task force of local, state and federal authorities,” an official with Catawba County Emergency Management told WBTV 3.
Balls Creek Campground fire under control. Numerous cabins destroyed. Multiple agencies remain on scene extinguishing hot spots. Cause under investigation. pic.twitter.com/9y5ar4bhRp
— Catawba County EM (@CatCoEM) September 30, 2019
Damage from last night’s Balls Creek Campground fire: 40 tents (cabins) destroyed & 9 others damaged. Joint local, state & federal task force investigating cause of fire. Hearts are heavy today with the loss at this special place! #ballscreekfire @CatawbaCounty pic.twitter.com/K4qZpEheRA
— Catawba County EM (@CatCoEM) September 30, 2019
Anyone with possible criminal information in the #ballscreekfire should call the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office at (828)464-5241 pic.twitter.com/x0ZSuSB0dX
— Catawba County EM (@CatCoEM) September 30, 2019
Balls Creek Campground fire attack from Buffalo Shoals Rd side pic.twitter.com/YvQK8u4o47
— Catawba County EM (@CatCoEM) September 30, 2019
Balls Creek Campgroung Fire with 30% of tents involved continues to burn. Fire departments and heavy equipment in full attack. Please stay back - let firefighters do their job. @CatawbaCounty #fire #SafetyFirst pic.twitter.com/eQooH2Yikm
— Catawba County EM (@CatCoEM) September 30, 2019