Sneads Ferry man charged with attempted murder after three people injured in house fire

Duane Christopher Brower, 62, is accused of setting the fire

ONSLOW COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — A Sneads Ferry  man faces numerous charges after an early morning fire injured three people.

The Onslow County Sheriff’s Office said they responded to a fire at a home on Chadwick Shores Drive around 4:00 am on Tuesday.

Three people who lived in the home had escaped and were at a neighbor’s house when deputies arrived. All three were taken to the Naval Hospital at Camp Lejeune. One was later airlifted to Chapel Hill Burn Center. All victims are expected to recover from their injuries, the sheriff’s office said.

Investigators say another resident, Duane Christopher Brower, 62, intentionally set the fire. Brower had left the home before law enforcement arrived, but was later arrested by Holly Ridge Police Department during a traffic stop.

Brower was taken before a magistrate and charged with three Counts Attempted First Degree Murder, First Degree Arson, and Felony Malicious use of Explosive/Incendiary.

He is being held under no bond. His first court appearance is on Wednesday.