July 9th, 2020 by WCBC Radio

The Office of the State Fire Marshal, along with the Maryland State Police are investigating the cause of a fire that claimed the life of an adult male victim in the 14500 block of Barkdoll Road in Hagerstown. 

The fire was initially observed and called into 911 at 2:21 a.m by a neighbor. Nearly 50 firefighters responded from Washington, Frederick, Franklin, and Adam counties to bring the fire under control within 30 minutes.

Seven occupants resided in the home, and six were able to escape uninjured. Investigators concluded the victim, who resided in the basement of the home, was exiting the home when he told family members he was returning to the basement in hopes of locating a family pet. The victim was never observed again. During extinguishment, firefighters located the body of an adult victim on the exterior front porch of the home. Investigators believe the victim had self extricated through the basement door where he collapsed. Deputy State Fire Marshals have determined the fire originated on the exterior front porch. Investigators concluded a smoke alarm was present and activated during the fire. 

"This tragic incident is a heartbreaking but real example of why going back inside doesn't guarantee you and your family will make it back out alive. Get out, stay out. Have working smoke alarms and an escape plan in place" stated State Fire Marshal Brian S. Geraci

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will confirm the identity and cause of death for the victim.