Tragic Fire in Kill Devil Hills Claims Three Lives

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News Summary

A devastating fire in Kill Devil Hills resulted in the tragic loss of three lives and injuries to three others. The historic Birdsong/Phelan Cottage was a beloved vacation rental now deemed a total loss. Built in 1948 and designated a historical home, its destruction has deeply affected the community, which is now rallying to support those impacted by this heartbreaking event.

Tragic Fire in Kill Devil Hills Claims Three Lives

This past Friday, the peaceful community of Kill Devil Hills was rocked by a devastating incident that saw the historic Birdsong/Phelan Cottage engulfed in flames. The fire broke out around 2:20 a.m., leading to a heartbreaking loss of life. Three individuals tragically lost their lives, and three others suffered injuries as they fought to escape the inferno.

A Total Loss, A Historic Gem

The iconic cottage, nestled at 1825 N. Virginia Dare Trail, has been a beloved vacation rental for many families visiting the beautiful Outer Banks. With its charming four bedrooms and four bathrooms, this quaint retreat held a wealth of history and original character, including stunning wood floors and warm juniper wall coverings. Sadly, the local authorities have deemed the cottage a total loss, leaving the community in shock over the loss of such a treasured property.

A Rich History

Built in 1948, the Birdsong/Phelan Cottage was designated a historical home in 2011, which speaks volumes about its significance in the area. To put into perspective how special this place means to many, the original owners, Tom and Virginia Birdsong, salvaged many materials from demolished barracks after World War II to construct the house, infusing it with a rich backstory.

In 1989, the Phelan family acquired the home and continued to cherish its history. Over the years, they made various minor renovations that preserved the essence of the original footprint, ensuring future generations could appreciate its charm. Property tax records indicate that the 1,921-square-foot cottage was valued at $262,800, while the total worth of the property—including the land—was over $1.2 million.

Safeguarding Against the Ocean

This historic cottage’s remarkable story continues, as it has been moved twice to avoid the encroaching ocean; the first move was in the late 1960s, followed by a second in 1981. This showcased the owners’ commitment to preserving their family home, making the recent fire even more tragic.

Community Impact and Support

In an unfortunate twist of fate, the Birdsong/Phelan Cottage wasn’t the only property impacted by fire over the weekend. Another fire broke out on Colington Island, linked to an e-bike battery, resulting in toxic smoke exposure to a child and displacing a family in the community. They are currently seeking assistance from their neighbors for temporary housing and support during the extensive cleanup and repairs that could take months.

Conclusion

The loss of the Birdsong/Phelan Cottage serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the deep connections we hold to our homes. As the community of Kill Devil Hills comes together to support those affected, the stories, memories, and enduring legacy of this historic cottage will forever remain in the hearts of those who cherished it.

While the past cannot be changed, there is hope for the future. The community’s resilience shines through in difficult times, making it clear that the spirit of the Outer Banks—much like its beloved homes—will endure, regardless of the challenges ahead.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER

The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.