Tuesday Night Lightning Strike Causes Fire in Chestertown Home

Kent County, MD - A single-family home in Chestertown sustained significant damage from a structure fire likely caused by a lightning strike during a storm, according to preliminary investigations by authorities.  

The incident occurred in the 10000 block of Augustine Herman Highway in Chestertown, Maryland. The fire was discovered by the homeowner, who immediately reported it to emergency services.

The primary responding agency, Chestertown Volunteer Fire Company, arrived on the scene with 40 firefighters from their fire department and assisting agencies and successfully controlled the fire within 31 minutes. The response involved a single alarm with tanker force assistance.  

The fire originated in the interior of the structure and caused an estimated $260,000 in damages, including $200,000 to the structure and $60,000 to its contents.  

A pet dog suffered smoke inhalation during the incident. The animal was treated on-site by emergency personnel and subsequently transported to a local veterinary clinic for additional care.  

The cause of the fire has been determined to be natural, resulting from a lightning strike.