A North Carolina television news anchor lost his home after a lightning strike sparked a devastating fire that destroyed his townhouse, forcing him, his mother and their two dogs to escape with little more than their lives.
Bill Murray, co-anchor of WECT “Carolina in the Morning” in Wilmington, fled the burning home with his mother, Martha Jo, and their dogs, Cutter and Griffin, after flames broke out around 1 a.m. Monday at the family’s townhouse on Costmary Lane in Wilmington’s Barclay Place neighborhood.
No one was injured in the blaze, according to the Wilmington Fire Department.
Firefighters contained the flames to the primary townhouse, though the fire extended into a connected unit. Investigators later ruled the blaze accidental, determining it was caused by a lightning strike as a powerful thunderstorm swept through the Wilmington area Sunday night.
While the family escaped safely, they lost nearly everything they owned.
“In the early morning hours of June 29, our family experienced the unimaginable,” organizer Jessica Apicelli wrote on a fundraiser created to help Murray and his family recover.
“Our uncle, Bill Murray, and our grandmother, Martha Jo, lost their home in a devastating fire.”
The fundraiser says the pair also lost their belongings and vehicle.
“Thankfully, Bill, Martha Jo, and their two beloved dogs, Cutter and Griffin, all made it out safely,” the page reads. “While we are incredibly grateful that everyone escaped without injury, they lost nearly everything they owned, including their home, belongings, and vehicle.”
Apicelli described Murray as “a longtime Wilmington news anchor” who has “dedicated his career to serving our community” while also serving as the devoted caregiver for Martha Jo.
Family members said donations will help pay for temporary housing, transportation, everyday essentials and other immediate expenses as Murray and his mother begin rebuilding their lives.
“If you’ve ever been touched by Bill’s work or simply want to help a family in need, we would be deeply grateful for your support,” the fundraiser says. “Every donation, no matter the amount, will make a difference.”
WECT reported that Murray’s family established the fundraiser following the fire to assist with recovery efforts.
The Post has sought comment from the station.