Six lives were lost, four of them children, in what’s now being called the deadliest fire Maryland has seen in more than a decade. The flames broke out early Sunday morning on the 3000 block of North Declaration Court, trapping a family inside.
Out of the nine people who lived in the home, only three survived. Two were away when the fire started, and one person managed to escape. A firefighter was also hurt while battling the blaze and was taken to the hospital.
Investigators believe the fire may have started in an enclosed front porch area, but the exact cause is still unknown. Officials have found no evidence that it was intentionally set.
Fire marshals say the home did not have working smoke detectors, a heartbreaking detail they hope will serve as a wake-up call for everyone to:
- Install smoke alarms on every level of your home
- Test them regularly to make sure they work
- Have and practice a home escape plan
Neighbors say the loss has shaken the community to its core. Even seasoned first responders were brought to tears by the scene.
Our hearts are with the family, friends, and neighbors grieving this unimaginable tragedy.
