A father lost his life Sunday night after re-entering his burning home in Hollywood in an attempt to locate his 10-year-old child, according to the Office of the State Fire Marshal.
The fatal fire occurred around 9:40 p.m. on July 5, 2026, in the 22800 block of Thornbury Drive. Firefighters from the Leonardtown Volunteer Fire Department and several surrounding departments responded to reports of a house fire with a child believed to be trapped inside.
Upon arrival, crews found heavy fire throughout the two-story single-family home. Initial reports indicated the child’s father had gone back into the residence to search for the child. After extinguishing the blaze, firefighters located the father deceased on the second floor.
The child was later confirmed to have safely escaped the home. Although the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will make the official identification, investigators have confirmed the deceased was the child’s father and the homeowner. The victim was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for determination of the cause and manner of death.
Deputy State Fire Marshals are investigating the incident with assistance from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office. Preliminary information indicates the family had been using ground-based sparkler fireworks earlier in the evening. After the display concluded, the spent fireworks were discarded into a trash can on the home’s screened-in rear deck. Investigators are examining whether the discarded fireworks retained enough heat to ignite combustible materials inside the trash can.
“Our hearts are with this family as they face an unimaginable loss,” said Acting State Fire Marshal Jason Mowbray. “As we continue our investigation, we want everyone to remember that fireworks don’t stop posing a risk when the show is over. Taking a few extra minutes to soak and properly dispose of used fireworks and sparklers can help prevent a tragedy like this.”
The Office of the State Fire Marshal reminds Marylanders that fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices can retain enough heat to ignite combustible materials long after they appear to be extinguished. Spent fireworks should always be thoroughly soaked in water, then placed in a metal or other noncombustible container outdoors to cool completely before disposing.
This incident occurred during the Independence Day holiday weekend, when fireworks use increases across Southern Maryland. The tragedy in Hollywood highlights the dangers that can persist after celebrations end and underscores the importance of proper disposal practices.
Fire departments across St. Mary’s County, including Leonardtown Volunteer Fire Department, responded quickly to the scene. The collaborative effort of multiple agencies demonstrates the coordinated response typical in local emergencies.
As the investigation continues, officials emphasize that no family should face such a loss. The Office of the State Fire Marshal encourages residents to follow safety guidelines year-round, not just during holidays.
For St. Mary’s County residents, this event serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly a fire can escalate and the critical need for vigilance with fireworks and other ignition sources. Local fire prevention efforts and community education remain key to reducing such risks.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information that could assist is encouraged to contact the Office of the State Fire Marshal.
