Investigation Continues Into Fire That Killed Howard Co. Firefighter
CLARKSVILLE, Md. (WJZ) -- An investigation continues into the cause of the fire at a Clarksville home where a veteran firefighter lost his life Monday.
Woodscape Drive was closed to traffic Tuesday as fire investigators surveyed the mansion where a fire started around 2 a.m. Monday.
Howard County Firefighter Nathan Flynn, a 13-year veteran, was inside the home when he fell through the first floor around 2:20 a.m.
It took rescuers 22 more minutes to find Flynn in the basement of the smoke-filled home. Flynn was rushed to hospital where he was pronounced dead.
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Now, investigators from the ATF and the Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office are trying to determine what caused the 7-alarm fire.
Homeowner Janet Siddiqui and her three children met with an ATF officer in the driveway of their home.
The home caught fire after a reported lightning strike, but officials have not yet officially determined the cause.
Flynn, the married father of five, volunteered at the Susquehanna Hose Company for 18 months, in addition to working full-time for the Howard County Fire Department.
"He was a go-getter. His life revolves around the fire service and his family. He's got many kids at home. So right now we're just trying to make sure his family, his wife, his kids, are taken care of," said Chief Scott Hurst, of the Susquehanna Hose Co.
A GoFundMe was set up by his fellow firefighters to support his family -- it's already raised more than the $50,000 goal.
Siddiqui and her husband Nayab donated $10,000 to the fund.
"We are devastated by the loss of firefighter Nathan Flynn. We grieve alongside the Howard County community and our hearts go out to his family and comrades. Structures can be rebuilt, but the loss of a loved one is irreplaceable. We are profoundly grateful and thank the fire department for their bravery and dedication today," Siddiqui wrote.
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