MD Father Dies While Searching Burning Home For His Child: Fire Marshal

ST. MARY'S COUNTY, MD — A father is dead after he re-entered his burning St. Mary's County home in search of his child over the weekend.

A release from the Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal states the incident took place Sunday at the 22800 block of Thornbury Drive in Hollywood.

Several fire departments, including the Leonardtown Volunteer Fire Department, responded to the scene shortly after 9:30 p.m.

What's Known About The Case?

Early findings released by investigators indicate the man returned to the home in search of his 10-year-old child, who was later confirmed to have safely escaped the residence.

At the scene, firefighters found the man deceased on the second floor of the two-story home. While he was not publicly identified by officials, authorities did confirm the person was the child's father and the homeowner of the residence.

An official cause and manner of death will be determined by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

What Do Officials Believe Started The Fire?

While findings are still considered preliminary, investigators are looking into whether fireworks tossed into a trash had prompted the fire to break out.

The release states that the family had been using ground-based sparkler fireworks, and that the used fireworks were later "discarded into a trash can on the home's screened-in rear deck."

"Deputy State Fire Marshals are investigating whether the discarded fireworks retained enough heat to ignite combustible materials inside the trash can, resulting in the fire," reads the release.

First responders say fireworks should be thoroughly soaked in water and placed in either a metal or noncombustible container outdoors before they are disposed of.

"Our hearts are with this family as they face an unimaginable loss," said acting State Fire Marshal Jason Mowbray. "As we continue our investigation, we want everyone to remember that fireworks don't stop posing a risk when the show is over. Taking a few extra minutes to soak and properly dispose of used fireworks and sparklers can help prevent a tragedy like this."

An investigation into the incident remains ongoing.