Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (MCFRS) responded Sunday afternoon to a house fire in the 900 block of Helena Drive in Silver Spring.
According to MCFRS spokesperson David Pazos, the fire was sparked by a propane grill explosion that ignited the back porch and extended through the roof. An elderly woman and her dog escaped safely and declined medical transport; a cat was found deceased.
Due to extreme heat and fire conditions, a second alarm and task force were dispatched, with approximately 85 personnel on scene.
We will provide an update if additional verified information becomes available.
Update~900blk Helena Dr- House fire with fire starting on outside and extending to 1rst and 2nd floor of 2 story SFH. 1 elderly female escaped with her dog and declined transport for check up. 1 cat removed deceased. 2nd alarm + Task Force due to heat. Approx 85 @mcfrs personnel. https://t.co/76IcedUrI8 pic.twitter.com/NPiUZDPUOQ
— Pazos@mcfrsPIO (@DavidPazos15) June 22, 2025