LUMBERTON — A fire that investigators say was intentionally set killed several pets at a Lumberton home last week.
Lt. Brian Duckworth, an arson investigator for the Sheriff’s Office, said that a bearded dragon lizard, a rabbit, goldfish and a turtle were killed, and the Surry Drive mobile home and its contents were destroyed. The homeowner, Ronda Clarke, and her children were out of town when the fire was started at about 7:47 p.m.
Harlie Ray Lowery, 42, has been charged with breaking and entering, second-degree arson and felony cruelty to animals. The statement says Lowery lives at several unspecified addresses.
Lowery was also served with a warrant for trespassing. He was placed in the Robeson County Detention Center under a $21,000 bond.
The fire was set in three locations, according to the statement from the Sheriff’s Office.
According to Duckworth, the quick response by Allenton and East Howellsville firefighters “saved the scene for the investigation.” Firefighters quickly got the fire under control, but remained on the scene for about two and a half hours.
The Red Cross is assisting the family, the Sheriff’s Office said.
