Kent Co. house fire ruled accidental

SMYRNA, Del. – Delaware State Fire Marshals have determined that a house fire in Smyrna Tuesday night was accidental.

Firefighters were called to the unit block of Zelkova Road just before 10 p.m., observing heavy fire conditions in the two-story home. Assistance was requested from several nearby fire departments and Kent County EMS.

One firefighter reportedly suffered minor burners and was taken to Bayhealth Kent Campus and later transferred to Crozer Medical Center in Pennsylvania. We’re told he is currently listed in stable condition.

The fire was extinguished shortly after 11 p.m. Further investigation revealed that the fire began on the deck of the home and was caused by improperly discarded smoking materials. Damage has been estimated at $500,000, and the American Red Cross is assisting the occupants.