MACON COUNTY, NC – fatal early-morning house fire is under investigation in Macon County after a residence on Evans Road was destroyed Sunday.

According to the Macon County Fire Marshal’s Office, emergency crews were dispatched to a fully involved structure fire on Evans Road at approximately 5:13 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 11. Firefighters arrived to find the multi-family home engulfed in flames.

Cullasaja Fire & Rescue responded as the lead agency, with mutual aid provided by Franklin Fire & Rescue, Clarks Chapel Fire & Rescue, and Mountain Valley Fire & Rescue. Macon County EMS also responded to the scene.

During firefighting and search operations, one deceased victim was discovered inside the residence. The Macon County Medical Examiner is working to positively identify the victim. No identity has been released at this time.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The Macon County Sheriff’s Office, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, and the North Carolina Office of the State Fire Marshal are assisting the Fire Marshal’s Office with the investigation.

Officials said the structure was a complete loss. Additional details will be released as the investigation continues.