Police claimed that the Caldwell County housefire in which four relatives were killed Wednesday was deliberately set.On Thursday, Lenoir police identified the victims as Ronald Albert Ward (58); Ronald James Jimmy Ward (29); and Katlyn Katie Nichole Ward (18) and Emily Grace Ward (15).Police said that the accelerant was used to intentionally lighten the fire, based on evidence collected at the scene.WBTV was told by a local pastor that he has known the victims for many decades.Kenneth Poarch stated that they are a happy family.Lenoir firefighters and police responded to 911 calls from a residence in the 1200 block Laurel Place NW. Lenoir lies about 75 miles north of Charlotte, just outside Hickory.Police said that first responders arrived on the scene to find a large fire in the house.Lenoir Fire Chief Kenneth Hair stated Wednesday that firefighters believed the explosion may have caused the damage. WBTV, Observer news partner, shows white debris strewn on the lawn near a garage door.Police said that firefighters discovered the victims with gunshot wounds after entering the house.Police said that the incident did not seem random and that no suspects were being sought.Police said that this is a terrible tragedy for the families of the victims. We ask for your prayers and thoughts.Public records searches revealed that Unifour Construction Co. and its predecessor Evans and Ward Construction were headed by Ronald Albert Ward. According to state records, Ward and his wife Karen operated the business from their home. It is not clear if the business was actually operating.This is still a developing story. Keep checking back for more updates.
