Beechwood Drive Fire Claims One Life

January 29, 2007 - 0514 hours
reported by Assistant Chief John Durrer

Waldorf volunteers were alerted for the working house fire at Beechwood Drive in the Fox Run Subdivision. E-31 arrived on the scene to find a one-story single family home, with fire showing thru the roof. E-31's crew pulled and 1¾" pre-connect and entered through the front door. Chief 3A arrived shortly thereafter establishing the Beechwood command. Chief 3A noted the cars in the driveway and immediately questioned neighbors about the occupants, learned that there was a possibility of two subjects trapped, and requested additional medic units. Initially, believing that RS-40 was the only other unit responding, they were assigned search and rescue. Tower 24 arrived and performed search & rescue and provided lights to the building. E-122 arrived & picked up E-31's supply line and pulled a backup 1¾" line. E-112 arrived next, followed by RS-40 and both units also assisted with search & rescue. E-31 & E-122 kept the fire in check as all other units were committed to the search & rescue. After an aggressive search was performed by all units, one victim was located by a member of Tower 24 in the garage, which had been converted into a bedroom. Believing that a second victim was still missing, another aggressive secondary search was conducted with negative results. E-31 and E-122 extinguished the fire, which was contained in the family room and kitchen and attic area above both rooms. Units worked together to perform overhaul and checking for extension. At this time, the fire is classified as undetermined, by the MD State Fire Marshall's Office.

Due to the cold weather and time of morning, additional Engine companies were requested for relief, but were not utilized. Chief 3 took incident command upon his arrival, and Chief 3A had operations.

The second resident of the home was discovered to be in North Carolina for the birth of their first grandchild. Our deepest condolences go out to the family of the victim.

Waldorf Units: E-31, E-122, Chief 3 & 3A, Safety 3, ParaAmb-128, ParaAmb-399, Waldorf Auxiliary

Mutual Aid Units: PG Tower 24, RS-40, E-112, E-11, ParaAmb-518, EMS Duty Officer 16

Thank you to E-83 and E-102 for filling in at Fire Station 3

Other Units: MD State Fire Marshals Office, CCSO, Charles County Forensics Office, SMECO.