Emergency crews rush to house fire at home of NASCAR star Denny Hamlin’s parents

Emergency crews were dispatched to a massive house fire Sunday night at a home in Gaston County, North Carolina, where the parents of NASCAR Cup Series star Denny Hamlin live. The fire started on Blacksnake Road in the town of Stanley at 6 p.m. and quickly worked its way up to a third-alarm fire, putting firefighters from many departments in the immediate area in place to respond.

Fire had taken over much of the home when crews arrived, making things difficult for anyone who may be inside. Two individuals were transported to a local hospital as they were removed from the property, authorities said. Authorities did not identify them or offer details about their medical conditions.

Firefighters face difficult conditions at Hamlin family home

Firefighters also said the response was hindered by the home being located in a rural area, where there are no fire hydrants. The blaze spread through the rugged terrain so fast that crews had to ferry water using tanker trucks to the scene. It took at least 10 fire departments to control the fire and stop it from spreading further on the property.

Fire crews were able to get a consistent water source, but the home was already inflamed. The interior operations were difficult due to heavy smoke and high heat, so firefighters applied a good portion of the defensive attack to bring the fire down and protect the exposed areas. It took approximately two hours after the first 911 call to get the fire fully under control.


As of Wednesday, officials said investigators had stayed at the scene of the fire to estimate the extent of the damage and begin investigating what started the fire. No cause has been released, and officials have not said whether it was an accident or suspicious.

Denny Hamlin family awaits answers as the investigation continues

Denny Hamlin had not addressed the incident publicly Sunday night. His parents were not among those taken to the hospital, but details regarding their whereabouts at the time of the fire are limited, and it is unknown whether they were home when the fire started. According to property records, the home is owned in the name of a company affiliated with Hamlin's family.

When word of the fire got out, neighbors and folks from around the racing world reacted with concern, many offering support and best wishes to the Hamlin family. Further information regarding the condition of the injured and the cause of the fire will be provided when known, officials added.

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