Structure Fire Displaces Two Adults in Chester; Investigation Underway

Chester, MD - On April 12, 2026, a structure fire occurred at a one-story, single-family dwelling located in the 1300 block Queen Anne Drive in Chester, Queen Anne's County, Maryland. A neighbor discovered the fire and contacted 911 at 10:54 a.m.

The Kent Island Volunteer Fire Department served as the primary responding agency with additional units from around the area. Thirty firefighters responded to the single-alarm incident. The fire was brought under control in 43 minutes.

Two adults were displaced by the incident, and two cats perished in the fire. The property, which featured an attached garage, sustained an estimated $300,000 in structural damage and $100,000 in content loss.

Investigators noted that smoke alarms were present in the home but did not activate. The area of origin and the preliminary cause of the fire remain under investigation. The American Red Cross is currently assisting the displaced occupants.

If anyone has information regarding this fire, please contact the Upper Eastern Regional Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal at 410-819-3500.