Girl Identified Who Died In Elkton Christmas Day Fire: Update

ELKTON, MD — Authorities on Wednesday released the name of a 10-year-old girl who died in a Christmas morning house fire in Elkton and left her family without a home. The victim was Kyleigh Nicole Treadway, according to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, which said the cause of death was thermal injuries and smoke inhalation.

Deputy state fire marshals continue investigating the origin and cause of the blaze. So far, investigators have not found any evidence that the fire was intentionally set and continue to explore all possible accidental causes, a news release said.

The Singerly Fire Company and surrounding departments responded about 7:30 a.m. to a house fire at 317 Willow Drive. Upon arrival, firefighters found the family standing outside the home, reporting a girl was still inside. After the family discovered the fast-moving fire, they made several attempts to save Kyleigh, but were unable to because of the thick smoke and intense heat.

Firefighters entered the home and found the girl, who was pronounced dead at the scene.

The fire's origin and cause remain under investigation by local officials and the state fire marshal's office. So far, investigators have been unable to locate working smoke alarms in the home.

Five other family members lived in the house, including four adults and a 13-year-old.

"Our hearts break for Kyleigh and the families suffering these losses of life because they are so preventable," said Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray in a statement. "We are asking everyone to test your smoke alarms; this single device is the most effective tool in preventing injury or death. Make a plan — come together as a family and make a home escape plan so you know what to do in an emergency. Finally, remember to get out and stay out and dial 911 from a safe location."

This fire fatality came just a day after a 58-year-old woman lost her life in a Christmas Eve fire in Frostburg, the fire marshal's office said.