Authorities investigate Rose Hill fatal fire

Authorities are investigating the cause of a fire that led to the death of Morrell Chasten, 88, of Rose Hill on Sunday. 

According to the Department of Emergency Management, the Duplin County 911 Center received a call about a fire in the area of 390 Clinic Circle Drive, Rose Hill on April 28 at 11:54 p.m. 

After responding units conducted a primary search of the structure, they found the man who was later identified as Chasten and removed him. 

Officials reported that despite medical personnel lifesaving efforts, Chasten succumbed to his injuries. He was later transported for an autopsy that will be conducted by the North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

“Out of respect for the family of the victims and to maintain the integrity of the investigation, no further details about the investigation will be released,” stated the report.