House Fire in California

Firefighters from several St. Mary’s and Calvert County departments responded Sunday morning to a house fire in the 23000 block of Mirfield Lane in California, where crews found fire showing from a two-story residence.

The fire was dispatched on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at around 6:57 a.m. after reports of flames and smoke coming from the front of the home. Initial information indicated the fire began on the front porch area and was spreading along the structure.

Fire and EMS units from Bay District, Hollywood, Solomons, Leonardtown, Second District, and additional mutual aid companies arrived at the scene. The first crews reported fire visible from the front of the two-story split-level home and established command at the front of the structure.

Responding firefighters confirmed that all occupants had exited the residence and that no one was trapped inside. Both primary and secondary searches were completed with no one found inside. There were no injuries reported.

Crews advanced hose lines into the residence, working on both floors to bring the fire under control. Firefighters opened walls and ceilings to check for hidden fire. Fire was found in the walls and attic, so additional efforts were needed on the second floor and roof to fully extinguish all hot spots.

A rapid intervention crew was assigned for the safety of firefighters operating inside the home. SMECO secured utilities at the property, and animal control was requested for animals found on scene.

The fire was brought under control within about 20 minutes of arrival, but crews remained at the property for an extended time conducting overhaul, checking for remaining fire, and assisting investigators. Overhaul was completed shortly before 9:50 a.m., and units then began clearing the scene.

The Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause and origin of the fire. The American Red Cross is assisting two adults and two children who were displaced. The homeowners were away on vacation when the fire occurred, and a family member was caring for their dog at the time.

The Bay District Volunteer Fire Department extends its appreciation to mutual aid companies, EMS personnel, law enforcement, SMECO, animal control, the Red Cross, and dispatchers who assisted with the response.

Residents are reminded to have working smoke alarms on every level of their home, test them monthly, and review a home escape plan with all household members.