Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (MCFRS) responded to a fire on the 15000 block of Peach Orchard Rd., between route 198 and Briggs Chaney Rd., in Burtonsville at approximately 2:45am early Sunday morning.
According to MCFRS Chief spokesperson Pete Piringer, firefighter arrived to the single family home to with smoke showing upon arrival and all occupants outside of the house. One occupant of the home was evaluated for smoke inhalation.
The fire, which occurred in one of the bedrooms, was extinguished by firefighters. What was referred to as “Exotic animals” were found in the basement among significant clutter/storage and the animals were contained in a shelter-in-place. Animal control was requested to assist.
There was approximately $40k in damage and the cause remains under investigation. The occupants and pets have been temporarily displaced from the home.
Update – Peach Orchard Rd, fire extinguished, @MCFRS_EMIHS evaluating 1 patient/occupant (smoke inhalation), some ‘exotic’ animals in basement amongst significant clutter/storage, animals contained & shelter-in-place, animal control requested to assist
— Pete Piringer (@mcfrsPIO) February 16, 2025