UPDATE: Fire That Completely Destroys House in Lexington Park Ruled Accidental

January 23, 2019

UPDATE 1/23/2019: On January 22, 2019 at 12:40 p.m., firefighters responded to 20915 Olympia Court, in Lexington Park for the reported structure fire.

The owner is identified as Federal National Mortgage Association, and the occupant Latoya Mason.

The estimated loss is valued at $350,000. Smoke alarms were present and activated.

26 firefighters responded and controlled the fire in 1 hour. Firefighters operated on scene for over 2-hours.

The fire was discovered by an occupant, and the origin of fire was determined to be on the exterior rear-deck.

The preliminary cause was deemed accidental and due to combustible materials being too close to a kerosene heater.

The family has been displaced as a result of the fire and is being assisted by the American Red Cross.

The structure is considered a total loss.

1/22/2019: On Tuesday, January 22, 2019, at approximately 12:40 p.m., firefighters from NAS Patuxent River, Bay District, and Ridge responded to Olympia Court in Lexington Park, for the reported structure fire.

Smoke could be seen from as far as Mervell Dean Road, in Hollywood.

Crews arrived on scene to find fire and smoke showing from all sides of the house, and declared a defensive attack only for safety.

Firefighters operated on the scene for over 2 hours.

American Red Cross responded to the scene to assist 2 adults, 3 children, and 2 therapy dogs.

No known injuries were reported, and the residence next door was damaged by the heat of the fire.

The Maryland Office of the State Fire Marshal responded to the scene to investigate the cause of the fire.

Updates will be released when the full reported is provided.