FEDERALSBURG — A one-story wood frame single family dwelling caught fire November 19, 2025, in the 4800 block of Webster Street, destroying the structure and contents while claiming the lives of several pets according to the State Fire Marshals report.
The incident occurred at approximately 2:40 p.m. at 4812 Webster Street in Dorchester County. One occupant, owner Jessica Ellis, was home at the time and awoke to the sound of smoke alarms activating. She escaped unharmed through a bedroom window. No human injuries were reported, but three dogs and one cat perished in the blaze.
Firefighters from the Hurlock Volunteer Fire Department led the response as the primary unit, with mutual aid provided by multiple companies across Caroline and Dorchester counties, as well as assistance from Delaware. Responding departments included Federalsburg Volunteer Fire Company, Preston Volunteer Fire Company, East New Market Volunteer Fire Department, Secretary Volunteer Fire Company, Eldorado Brookview Volunteer Fire Company, Bridgeville Volunteer Fire Company in Delaware, Linkwood-Salem Volunteer Fire Company, and Easton Volunteer Fire Department. Approximately 45 firefighters worked the scene on a single-alarm call.
Crews arrived to find visible fire showing from the single-story home, along with a heavy column of smoke visible from a distance. They mounted an aggressive interior attack where safe, prioritizing life safety before focusing on property conservation. The fire was brought under control in about 15 minutes, with units remaining on site for overhaul operations to check for hidden extensions and prevent rekindle.
The American Red Cross is assisting the two displaced residents with immediate needs such as temporary housing, clothing, and food. Preliminary investigation points to an accidental cause stemming from electrical failure in the kitchen area of origin. Smoke alarms were present and functioned properly, alerting the occupant in time for escape. No sprinkler system was installed in the residence.
Estimated losses total $200,000 to the structure and $100,000 to contents, resulting in a complete loss of the home built in 1979 on a half-acre lot.