Officials suspect fire intentionally set at Oak Island Masonic Lodge, searching for suspect

OAK ISLAND, N.C. (WECT) - The Oak Island Fire Department responded to a call about a fire at the Oak Island Masonic Lodge just before 3 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 6.

The fire was contained in about 45 minutes. There was extensive damage to a portion of the interior, but investigators are still working to determine the full extent of damage to the building. Officials suspect the fire was set intentionally.

The Oak Island Police Department said that 34-year-old Wesley Heckendorn of Bolivia is believed to be the person responsible for starting the fire.

“The Oak Island Police Department has just obtained a Warrant for Arrest of Mr. Wesley Edward Heckendorn, 34 of Bolivia, NC on one count of Burning of Other Buildings. This is a felony offense, and now officially names Mr. Heckendorn as a suspect in this fire investigation,” a spokesperson for the town said.

“At the same time, the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office is also searching for Heckendorn as part of an ongoing missing persons investigation. Heckendorn was last seen driving a white 2017 Kia Forte with a black front bumper, and the license plate CDN7528,” a press release from the Town of Oak Island states. “Anyone with information on his location should call 9-1-1 immediately.”

Oak Island Police are working with the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office and the SBI.

If you have any information you are asked to call (910) 253-2777 or 911.

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