Fire Causes $500K In Damage To Harford Co. Home, Claims Life Of Family Dog: Fire Marshal

HARFORD COUNTY, MD — A Wednesday night fire claimed the life of a family dog, destroyed their garage and damaged their vehicles.

The fire broke out shortly after 11 p.m. Wednesday at a home at 1404 Rigdon Rd. in Jarrettsville. The owner, Christi Peterson, told officials she awoke to "loud pops and bangs." She got out of bed and found a fire in the attached garage. Peterson and her son escaped their single-family two-story home with one dog and called 911, according to the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

The fire spread to two vehicles parked outside, but the 46 firefighters on scene were able to contain most of the damage to the garage. However, extensive fire, heat, soot and water damage impacted the rest of the home as well.

The Jarrettsville Volunteer Fire Company initially responded to the fire. Firefighters reigned in the blaze within half an hour. The fire caused $250,000 damage to the home and an additional $250,000 in loss of contents, according to the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

The family has been displaced but is being assisted by friends. A GoFundMehas been set up to help the family.

"Our beloved pug, Perry, unfortunately did not make it. We are heartbroken by his loss. We are now facing the daunting task of rebuilding our lives from scratch. We have lost everything we own, including our home, our belongings and our car. We are asking for your support as we rebuild. Any donation, big or small, would be greatly appreciated. Your generosity will help us to find a new home, replace our lost essentials, and cover other unforeseen expenses. We are so grateful for the community's support during this difficult time. Thank you for standing with us," the Peterson family shared on the GoFundMe page.