Child Playing With Fire Caused HdG Duplex Blaze: Officials

HAVRE DE GRACE, MD — A child started a house fire in Havre de Grace Tuesday, according to the Office of the State Fire Marshal. The blaze displaced five people, and nobody was injured, officials said.

Firefighters were called at 8:19 p.m. to a fire in the 400 block of South Washington Street.

Crews from the Susquehanna Hose Company, Aberdeen Fire Department and Level Volunteer Fire Company responded to the duplex, where the hose company reported finding fire on the top floor.

About 40 firefighters were called and brought the blaze under control in five minutes, officials said. It started in the attic when a child was playing with fire, according to investigators, who said the blaze was contained to the attic. The smoke alarm did not activate, authorities said.

Two adults and three children were displaced by the fire, officials reported. Family and friends were assisting those displaced.

"Juvenile fireplay" caused the blaze, according to investigators, who said an 8-year-old was referred to the Department of Juvenile Services and released to the custody of his mother.

The fire marshal estimated there was $25,000 in damage as a result.