At 11:52 pm on Sunday, March 27, 2022, the Chestertown Volunteer Fire Company, along with multiple mutual aid companies, was dispatched for the structure fire in the 24600 block of Chestertown Road (Maryland 20). This was between Broad Neck Road (Maryland 446) and Camp Road. Multiple 9-1-1 callers were reporting fire showing.

First arriving found a one (1) story, single family, rancher style dwelling with heavy fire in the garage area, and significant extension (fire spread) into the home, especially into the attic space. Crews deployed three (3) 1-3/4” hose lines from our Engine 68 and went to work gaining control of the fire. There were two dogs and a pet bird in the home. Unfortunately, one of the dogs perished, and the other was still missing as of this release. Firefighters were able to rescue the bird, which was given over to the homeowners.

To maintain fire and life safety coverage for the Chestertown and surrounding community during this incident, the Clayton VFC (Delaware) sent an engine, the Hacks Point VFC (Cecil County) provided a tanker.

The Maryland State Fire Marshals Office was requested. They are conducting an Origin & Cause Investigation. Delmarva Power responded to the scene and secured electrical power to the property. The American Red Cross was requested to assist the homeowners.

The fire was placed under control at 12:53 am. At the time of this release, there were no reported injuries to civilians or emergency personnel. There were 50 firefighters and emergency personnel at this incident.

Photographs by the Chestertown VFC. Media may use with attribution.

***Update*** Great news! The second dog was located. Members of the K&QA Rescue Squad treated him with oxygen, administered using a Pet Oxygen Mask. There were also two cats, which have been located unharmed.

Additional photographs have been added to the release.

Organizations & Agencies:

Chestertown VFC

Rock Hall VFC

Kennedyville VFC

Betterton VFC

Community Volunteer Fire Company of Millington

Galena VFC

Church Hill VFC

Crumpton VFC

Sudlersville VFC

Kent & Queen Annes Rescue Squad

Kent County EMS

Kent County Sheriffs Office

Maryland State Police

Maryland State Fire Marshals Office

Delmarva Power

American Red Cross