Double Homicide Investigation Underway Following Fatal Morganton House Fire
MORGANTON, N.C. — Authorities in Burke County have confirmed that a fatal house fire earlier this week on Swink Street is now being investigated as a double homicide.
On Friday, September 5, 2025, the Burke County Sheriff’s Office identified the second victim of the tragedy as Joseph Kincaid Byrd, Jr., 76, of Morganton. Byrd’s death, along with that of Michael Curtis Hallyburton, 63, also of Morganton, has prompted investigators to pursue the case as a homicide rather than an accidental fire.
The deadly incident began on Sunday, September 2, 2025, when emergency crews responded to a residential fire on Swink Street. Multiple agencies, including the Burke County Sheriff’s Office, the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), and the Burke County Fire Marshal’s Office, worked at the scene late into the night. After the fire was extinguished, responders discovered two deceased individuals inside the residence.
Initially, officials announced the death of Michael Curtis Hallyburton while noting that the identity of the second victim was pending autopsy confirmation. The Sheriff’s Office has now confirmed that the second victim is Joseph Kincaid Byrd, Jr.
Following autopsy results and ongoing investigative efforts, the Sheriff’s Office officially classified the case as a double homicide, though the cause of death for each victim has not yet been released. Authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the fire, including whether it was intentionally set.
“This investigation remains active and ongoing,” the Sheriff’s Office stated in its latest update. “Additional information will be released as necessary.”
Law enforcement is urging the public to come forward with any information that may aid in solving the case. Anyone with knowledge related to the incident is asked to call 828-764-9530 or use the Burke County Sheriff’s Office app to submit an anonymous tip.
The community of Morganton is reeling from the devastating news, as two longtime residents have lost their lives under violent circumstances. Neighbors have expressed both shock and grief, noting that Swink Street is typically a quiet residential area where tragedy of this magnitude is rare.
As investigators continue to search for answers, the families of Michael Curtis Hallyburton and Joseph Kincaid Byrd, Jr. are left mourning their loved ones while calling for justice.