A GoFundMe has been launched to support the Carstens family following a fatal house fire in the Brookdale neighborhood of Chevy Chase that claimed the life of 55-year-old Karen Elsa Carstens.
According to officials, on Friday, April 3, 2026, at approximately 5:43 am, 2nd District officers and Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services responded to a home in the 4700 block of Merivale Road, where firefighters located Carstens suffering from life-threatening injuries. She was transported to a local hospital, where she later died.
According to the GoFundMe, the fire has left the family facing both emotional and financial hardship. Karen Carstens reportedly re-entered the home during the fire in an attempt to save her cat. The blaze destroyed the family’s home and belongings, leaving her father, Reimer, and brother, Karl Carstens, to rebuild their lives. Reimer, who resides in a nearby assisted living facility, and Karl are now seeking assistance for temporary housing, essential needs, and funeral expenses.
Community members have begun rallying support, and organizers say any contributions will help the family find stability as they recover from the tragedy.
