Woman, 81, Killed In St. Mary's County House Fire

LEXINGTON PARK, Md. (AP) -- Fire officials say an 81-woman died in a fire in her house in St. Mary's County.

The State Fire Marshal's Office say the blaze was reported about 1:15 p.m. Wednesday in Lexington Park. More than 55 firefighters from seven departments battled the blaze for 30 minutes before bringing it under control.

Firefighters found Marion W. Gatton unconscious in a bedroom. She was pronounced dead.

Authorities say Gatton's caretaker was burned on her hands trying to put out the fire in the kitchen. Officials also say a U.S. Marine who was in the area suffered smoke inhalation when he tried get into the home to rescue Gatton.

They were taken to a local hospital.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

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