Christmas Tree Sparks Dec. 24 House Fire, Killing 1 Pet

BEL AIR, MD — A family of six continues to search for two missing dogs after their Christmas tree caught their home on fire Christmas Eve, leaving it a complete loss. One dog died in the fire while a fourth dog was saved.

Donations also are being accepted as the family tries to get back on their feet.

The fire broke out shortly after 6:30 p.m. Dec. 24 at the home located in the 500 block of Flintlock Drive. According to the Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office, the base of the family's Christmas tree experienced an electrical failure. The fire was noticed by witnesses passing by the home who were out looking at Christmas lights. They spied the fire in the living room and after hearing dogs inside, attempted to save them by kicking in the front door. A neighbor broke in a back door window to try and help save the dogs, too. The family wasn't home at the time.

Fifty firefighters from the Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company battled the blaze, which took around 30 minutes to control. There was a minor injury reported to a witness who refused treatment, the fire marshal's office stated.

The family told WJZ that they're still looking for a bichon poodle mix named Mac and a brown cavapoo named Teddy. A pitbull died in the fire but a Golden Retriever survived with minor burns and was taken to the vet for treatment.

The two-story single-family home has been ruled a complete loss with structure damage and loss of contents estimated by the state fire marshal's office at $750,000. The family of six are being assisted by the Harford County Disaster Assistance and the Red Cross.

“A fire is tragic any time of year, but losing your home and a family pet on Christmas Eve is especially painful. Our thoughts are with the family as they begin the difficult recovery process. We urge everyone to take time to check electrical cords, outlets and smoke alarms — simple steps that can help prevent future tragedies,” said Maryland Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray.

Anyone who would like to make donations to help support the family can drop them off at the American Legion Post 39, at 500 N. Hickory Avenue in Bel Air. The family needs toiletries, basic necessities and clothing including:

• Mother: Shirt (L/XL), pants (12), shoes (10)
• Adult son: Shirt (L), pants (32/34), shoes (11)
• Adult son: Shirt (XL./XXL), pants (38/32), shoes (15)
• Adult female: Shirt (small), pants (2), shoes (8.5/9)
• Adult male: Shirt (M), pants (30), shoes (12)

A GoFundMe also has been set up for the family.

" The Axelsson family is now facing the overwhelming task of starting over. We are asking for help to support them during this incredibly difficult time. Donations will go directly toward immediate necessities such as clothing, food, temporary housing and basic essentials, as well as long-term recovery costs as they work to rebuild their lives," wrote Ella Steck, organizer of the GoFundMe.