11-Year Old Child Dies in Parsonsburg, Maryland House Fire
WICOMICO COUNTY, MD - An 11-year-old boy died in a house fire early Friday morning in Parsonsburg, Maryland. The Office of the State Fire Marshal and Maryland State Police are investigating the incident.
The Parsonsburg Volunteer Fire Department received the call at approximately 4:20 a.m. The fire occurred in the 31000 block of Zion Road in a one-and-a-half-story single-family home.
Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire conditions throughout the dwelling. Three adults had escaped the home and informed responders that a child remained inside. Despite rescue attempts, the boy succumbed to his injuries as a result of the fire and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Preliminary findings show that smoke alarms were present and functioning during the fire. The alarms activated as designed during the incident.
Investigators believe the fire started in the rear portion of the home. The exact origin and cause remain under investigation.
The victim's name and family identities are not being released at this time.
The fire caused an estimated $200,000 in structural damage and $100,000 in content losses. The American Red Cross is providing assistance to the affected family.
"The loss of a child in such a tragic manner is devastating beyond words. Our investigators are working diligently to determine what happened, and our focus is on supporting this family and the Parsonsburg community as they grieve," said Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray.
Mowbray emphasized the importance of fire safety preparation in homes. "This tragedy is a solemn reminder of the importance of working smoke alarms and having a practiced home escape plan. Even when alarms activate, every second counts. We encourage all Maryland families to test their smoke alarms monthly and talk with their loved ones about how to get out quickly and safely if a fire occurs," added Mowbray.
The Office of the State Fire Marshal and Maryland State Police Criminal Enforcement Division continue their joint investigation. This collaborative approach is standard procedure for all fatal fire incidents.
