Worcester Co. house fire under investigation

NEWARK, Md. – Worcester County Fire Marshals are working to determine the cause of a house fire in Newark.

Shortly after 11 a.m. Wednesday, firefighters responded to 9252 Croppers Island Road to find significant fire conditions throughout the two-story home. We’re told early into the incident, an evacuation of interior crews was ordered after a firefighter fell through the 2nd floor and the building partially collapsed.

Assistance was requested from several neighboring fire companies, including Ocean City, Showell, Berlin, Stockton, Powellville, and Willards fire departments. Firefighters spent a total of 4.5 hours at the scene bringing the fire under control, using an estimate of more than 50,000 gallons of water.

The American Red Cross is helping the three adults that were living in the home. We’re told more than 20 animals were believed to have died in the fire.

The exact cause of the fire is believed to be contributed by a portable heating appliance. No injuries were reported.