Lightning Strike Suspected in Gaithersburg House Fire Injuring Two First Responders

A fire broke out in a Gaithersburg residence early Saturday morning, reportedly following a lightning strike that may have occurred earlier in the day. Firefighters were dispatched to the scene in the 9200 block of Warfield Road shortly after 7 a.m., according to Montgomery County Fire and Rescue spokesperson David Pazos.

All five occupants of the home managed to escape safely, but two firefighters sustained injuries that were not life-threatening during their response efforts. Upon arrival, emergency crews found flames shooting through the roof, and multiple sections of the roof eventually collapsed due to the intensity of the fire.

Firefighters utilized approximately 15,000 gallons of water to bring the blaze under control. Initial reports indicated that the fire may have originated between 4:30 a.m. and 5 a.m., when residents detected smoke and were alerted by smoke alarms. They exited the house and called 911 upon discovering the extensive fire damage.

Damage estimates for the property are around $850,000, leaving three adults and two children displaced. Images shared by fire officials revealed significant damage to the second floor of the large white home, which is situated on a hillside.

While the exact cause of the fire remains under investigation, residents reported that there were lightning strikes in the area throughout the morning hours.

Reported by HarborBeat based on The Baltimore Banner (source).