Charlotte, NC, October 15, 2025
News Summary
Multiple fires at Wilmore School and Billingsville Cotswold Elementary have led to investigations and arrests amidst concerns for the local homeless population. The fires, responding to urgent fire alerts, prompted a significant response from firefighters. Despite the rapid containment of both fires and no reported injuries, the causes remain uncertain, raising safety concerns as redevelopment plans for Wilmore School progress. Concurrently, efforts to address the needs of the homeless community gain focus with a new warming shelter opening in Charlotte.
Charlotte, NC – Multiple fires at Wilmore School, along with a separate incident at Billingsville Cotswold Elementary School, have resulted in investigations and arrests amid ongoing concerns for the local homeless population. The Charlotte Fire Department responded to a report of a structure fire at Billingsville Cotswold Elementary School, where smoke was visible upon arrival. Medic and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department also attended the scene.
The Billingsville Cotswold Elementary School, currently under construction, may have experienced the fire due to a welder cutting pipes during demolition work. There are reports that nearby debris caught fire from sparks during this activity. Firefighters managed to extinguish the flames in approximately one hour, with no reported injuries.
Meanwhile, a fire at Wilmore School was reported shortly before 2:30 p.m. on a Monday afternoon. The swift response by firefighters triggered a second alarm for additional resources, leading to a total of sixty firefighters arriving at the scene. They successfully controlled the fire in about 25 minutes, and, similar to the earlier incident, there were no injuries reported. A ladder truck was utilized to reach high points of the school building.
The cause of the fire at Wilmore School remains undetermined. Wilmore School has already been approved for a mixed-use development, slated for May 2024, which will repurpose the historic building while retaining its structure. The rezoning plans involve constructing new buildings on a 3.5-acre site while ensuring that at least 5% of these new apartments are designated as affordable housing units. Community leaders, including Charlotte city councilwoman LaWana Mayfield, have advocated for preserving the historic site during these discussions.
Concerns have grown regarding the impact of these fires on the ongoing redevelopment plans. Wilmore School had already experienced a fire a few weeks prior, raising fears about safety and security. Fire reports indicate that a earlier fire at the former Wilmore School was intentionally set, leading to the arrest of Damond Tillman, who has been connected with multiple incidents at this school location. Gerald Baker was also arrested for his involvement in a prior fire. Both Tillman and Baker face charges related to the fires, including misdemeanor breaking and entering and carelessness with fire.
Community speculation is linking these fires to individuals homeless seeking shelter from the cold weather, which is bringing attention to the need for more shelter options. Deborah Phillips from Block Love Charlotte noted the importance of providing safe shelter to those experiencing homelessness and warned of the dangers of providing flammable items. In light of this, a warming shelter is set to accommodate over 50 individuals at 2738 North Graham Street for the following week.
The Charlotte Fire Department has assessed the property loss from the recent Wilmore School fire at approximately $15,000. Fire Chief Reginald Johnson commended the joint efforts of the fire and investigative teams who worked to address the fires and make arrests.
FAQs
What caused the fire at Billingsville Cotswold Elementary School?
The fire at Billingsville Cotswold Elementary School may have started due to a welder cutting pipes during demolition work, as reported by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. Nearby debris caught fire from sparks during the demolition.
How many firefighters responded to the Wilmore School fire?
Sixty firefighters ultimately responded to the Wilmore School fire and were able to control it in about 25 minutes.
Have any arrests been made concerning the Wilmore School fires?
Yes, Damond Tillman was arrested in connection with the most recent fire and is linked to multiple previous fires at the same location. Gerald Baker was also arrested for involvement in a fire at Wilmore School. Both Tillman and Baker faced charges including misdemeanor breaking and entering and carelessness with fire.
What is being done to provide shelter for the homeless in Charlotte?
A warming shelter accommodating more than 50 people will operate at 2738 North Graham Street for the following week to assist those lacking shelter from the cold weather.
Key Features of Fires at Wilmore and Billingsville Cotswold Schools
| Feature | Wilmore School Fire | Billingsville Cotswold Elementary School Fire |
|---|---|---|
| Time Reported | Shortly before 2:30 p.m. | Not specified |
| Number of Firefighters Responded | 60 | Not specified |
| Time Taken to Control Fire | About 25 minutes | About 1 hour |
| Injuries Reported | No | No |
| Cause of Fire | Undetermined | Possible spark from demolition work |
| Recent Arrests | Damond Tillman and Gerald Baker | No arrests reported |
| Property Loss | Estimated at $15,000 | Not specified |
