1 dead in explosion, fire at Apple Blossom Motel in Black Mountain

BLACK MOUNTAIN - One person died in an explosion at the Apple Blossom Motel in Black Mountain on the night of May 30, police said. 

According to Black Mountain Police Chief Steve Parker, the town police and fire departments responded to a call regarding an explosion and fire at 10:30 p.m. May 30 at the motel, located at 602 W. State St.. The fire crew was able to extinguish the fire, Parker said, and authorities then found the body. 

Police have not yet identified the dead man. Parker said the cause of the explosion and fire has not yet been determined.

"The fire department did an outstanding job of trying to contain the fire and put it out as quickly as they could," Parker said. "Once we were able to work through it, we found that there was one person deceased inside the hotel room."

The chief said an autopsy will determine how the person died.

"It's under investigation," Parker said. 

This is a developing story. Check back in for updates. 

Ezra Maille covers the town of Black Mountain, Montreat and the Swannanoa Valley. Reach him at 828-230-3324 or emaille@blackmountainnews.com. Please support local journalism with access to more breaking news by subscribing.