House Fire Claims the Life of Two Residents in Salisbury, Maryland
SALISBURY, MD - Investigators with the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office are continuing to investigate a house fire in Salisbury, Maryland that resulted in the deaths of two community members early Friday morning.
The Salisbury Fire Department and surrounding departments responded to the 1300 block of Middleneck Drive at approximately 2:10 a.m. after a neighbor reported the fire to 911. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered heavy fire throughout the two-story, single-family residence.
Fire crews entered the home and located two adult victims. The victims were removed from the residence and turned over to EMS personnel, who immediately began CPR.
Both individuals were transported by ambulance to TidalHealth Peninsula Regional, where they were later pronounced deceased.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will provide official identification of the victims at a later time. However, investigators have preliminarily identified them as an 85-year-old husband and his 79-year-old wife, who were the homeowners.
Deputy State Fire Marshals determined that the fire originated in the living room area. The exact cause remains under investigation. No evidence of arson was discovered during the preliminary investigation.
Investigators are examining possible accidental causes, including an overloaded electrical surge protector. The investigation revealed that no smoke alarms were present in the home.
"Our hearts break for the victims and their families," said Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray. "This tragedy is a devastating reminder of the importance of working smoke alarms and practicing fire safety. Please check your smoke alarms, create an escape plan, and practice it regularly. If a fire breaks out - get out and stay out."
This incident follows another fatal house fire that occurred less than five miles away in Parsonsburg, Maryland, the previous Friday. An 11-year-old boy lost his life in that fire.
A joint investigation between the Office of the State Fire Marshal and local law enforcement is standard procedure for all fatal fires in Maryland.
The Office of the State Fire Marshal emphasizes the importance of having working smoke alarms on every level of homes and inside sleeping areas. Residents seeking information about smoke alarm safety or requesting a smoke alarm for their home can visit Get Alarmed Maryland.
