Structure Fire Leads to Animal Rescue

Just after 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, Cypress Pointe Fire/Rescue was dispatched to a structure fire on White Rock Place, just outside of Vass.
Upon arrival, Engine 214 reported heavy fire and smoke coming from the attic of a modular home. Due to the volume of fire and the remote location without immediate hydrant access, a second alarm was requested for additional personnel and tanker support to establish a water supply.
Engine 214 deployed two attack lines—one through the front door and a second to the rear of the structure to knock down exterior fire conditions. The rear line was then repositioned to the interior to assist with fire suppression efforts.
The occupant had safely exited the home with two dogs; however, a cat remained inside. Fire crews located the cat in a rear bedroom and removed it from the structure. Moore County EMS personnel provided oxygen to the cat using a pet mask, and it was later reunited with the owner.
To support fire operations, Engine 214 requested Cypress Pointe Tanker 216 and Southern Pines Engine 812 to establish a rural hitch, ensuring a continuous water supply. Additional water supply operations were supported by tankers and a hydrant located on White Rock Road.
This incident presented significant challenges, as the fire was located in the attic above the crews. Firefighters had to pull down the ceiling to access and fully extinguish the fire.
The main body of the fire was knocked down within approximately 20–25 minutes. Crews remained on scene for an additional hour and a half to locate and extinguish hot spots.
The American Red Cross was contacted to assist the occupant and their pets. Duke Energy responded to secure utilities, and Moore County Public Safety conducted the fire investigation.
Agencies assisting Cypress Pointe Fire/Rescue included Aberdeen Fire Department, Carthage Fire Department, Crains Creek Fire Department, Moore County EMS, Moore County Public Safety, Moore County Sheriff’s Office, Southern Pines Fire Department, Vass Police Department, and Whispering Pines Fire Department.