A Christmas Day fire in Bethesda left four people and a family dog injured and forced a family from their home.
Bethesda, Md. (DG) – What began as a Christmas celebration in Bethesda quickly turned dangerous after a Christmas tree caught fire, injuring four people and a family dog.
Fire officials say the blaze broke out around 4:40 Christmas evening inside a home on Fleming Avenue. Investigators believe a dry tree was ignited by very old Christmas lights and a faulty power strip. Family members say they heard a popping sound and saw flames inside the tree before smoke alarms sounded.
Nine people were inside the home at the time. Four were taken to the hospital, and firefighters rescued the family dog.
About 65 firefighters responded and brought the fire under control. Damage is estimated at around $400,000.