Smoking Materials Spark Bethesda Condo Fire

A Bethesda family is without a home after smoking materials started a fire that damaged the townhome, authorities said.

A passerby and neighbor discovered the fire at 5700 Chapman Mill Drive in a three-story condo, and called 9-1-1. Monday’s fire

began on the second-floor deck or balcony and then spread, said Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services spokesman Pete Piringer.

A resident home at the time got out of the unit and no injuries were reported.

Authorities estimate damage to the dwelling at $10,000.

»Photos from fire scene courtesy of Pete Piringer, MCFRS spokesman, via Twitter