Denny Hamlin’s Parents’ House Catches Fire in Stanley, North Carolina, Two Hospitalized

The house of Denny Hamlin’s parents caught fire on Sunday evening in Stanley, NC, reported WSOC-TV. Emergency responders confirmed that two people were hospitalized after the fire, with neighbors identifying the property as the residence of the NASCAR driver’s parents, Dennis and Mary Lou Hamlin.

David Toomey, chief of the Lucia-Riverbend Fire Department, stated that the structure was nearly half destroyed by the time fire crews reached the scene. Firefighters also faced added challenges because the area lacks fire hydrants, complicating efforts to control the blaze.

According to the Lucia-Riverbend Fire Department, extinguishing the fire took approximately two hours due to limited water access. All individuals involved survived the incident, even though initial reports suggested that one person had been trapped inside. But officials later clarified that two people “made it out” before firefighters arrived and were outside the residence.

Officials have not confirmed whether Hamlin’s parents were the ones who were taken to the hospital, and have also declined to confirm the identities of the homeowners/residents. However, public property records list the house under the ownership of Dennis and Mary Lou Hamlin.

As WSOC reported, “we do not know who was inside the house at the time or who was sent to the hospital.”

Hamlin has not issued a statement, either. The No. 11 Joe Gibbs Racing driver, who currently resides in the Lake Norman area near Charlotte, had revealed some time back that his father is battling a serious illness and may not have more than a year to live. That, naturally, has left many wondering about Dennis’ well-being, especially since reports suggest hospitalization.

The Gaston County Office of Emergency Management and Fire Services reported that the fire started around 6 p.m. in the 1100 block of Blacksnake Road. The officials had to close Upper Stanley Road to allow fire department tankers to operate in the area. Authorities confirmed that the investigation to ascertain the cause of the fire will continue through Monday.

Multiple Gaston County fire departments responded to assist the Lucia-Riverbend Fire Department during the operation.

Chief Toomey described the home as a “total loss,” though crews managed to save several items, including old vehicles, collectibles, and pieces of racing memorabilia.