Waldorf, MD — Six people, including four children, have died after a devastating house fire tore through a home in the Maryland town of Waldorf on Aug. 10, according to state officials.
Fire Erupts With Residents Trapped Inside
Firefighters from the Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department were called to the 3000 block of Declaration Court North just before noon after reports of a large house fire with multiple people trapped. The Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office said the incident was quickly escalated to a two-alarm fire, prompting assistance from neighboring departments, the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Deputy State Fire Marshals.
“In Charles County, we do have fires every now and then, but with the loss of life that this is … this is pretty devastating,” said Bill Smith, public information officer for Charles County Volunteer Fire and EMS, in a statement to ABC News.
According to Master Deputy State Fire Marshal Oliver Alkire, it took about one hour for more than 70 fire personnel to bring the blaze under control.
Victims and Survivors
The home was occupied by nine residents at the time of the fire. Authorities said three people were found dead at the scene, while three others were initially missing. Later, search teams confirmed the additional victims, bringing the death toll to six.
Of the survivors:
- One adult escaped during the fire.
- Two other residents were not home when the blaze started.
One firefighter was injured and transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Possible Origin of the Fire
Investigators currently believe the fire may have started on the right side of the house, possibly in an enclosed porch area, according to WTOP. Officials emphasized that while the cause remains under investigation, there is no evidence of a criminal act, and accidental causes are being examined.
Key points from investigators so far:
- Fire possibly started in an enclosed porch area.
- No signs of criminal intent at this stage.
Community Shock and Official Statements
Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray released a statement expressing deep sympathy for the families:
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of six lives, including four children, in Waldorf today. Our hearts go out to the families impacted by this heartbreaking event. In this difficult time, let’s come together to support one another and reaffirm our commitment to fire safety.”
The medical examiner’s office will confirm the victims’ identities in the coming days, and the Fire Marshal’s Office has said updates on names and ages will be provided once confirmed.
Investigation Continues
In an official Facebook post, the Office of the Fire Marshal stated:
“Investigators will remain on the scene and focus on the cause of the fire. No evidence of a criminal act has been recovered, and we continue to examine all accidental causes. This will remain an active scene until the late evening hours.”
Authorities urge residents to review fire safety measures, ensure functional smoke detectors, and have a clear escape plan in case of emergencies.
What’s your reaction to this heartbreaking tragedy? Share your thoughts in the comments.
