BELCAMP, Md. – A family's yellow Labrador retriever jumped onto the kitchen counter and accidentally activated a toaster, igniting a fire that tore through their Harford County home and claimed the lives of three beloved pets, authorities said.
Dramatic home security footage captured the moment the dog, apparently trying to reach items on the counter near the refrigerator, repeatedly pawed and jumped at the area. Moments later, an orange glow appeared as the fire took hold, according to video obtained by ABC News.
The blaze broke out around 5:30 p.m. Friday at a residence on Foxglove Court in Belcamp. Firefighters from the Abingdon Fire Company responded quickly and brought the flames under control within about 20 minutes. No people were inside the home at the time of the fire, and no one was injured.
Deputy state fire marshals determined the cause was accidental after reviewing the Ring camera footage, which clearly showed the dog turning on the toaster and igniting nearby combustibles. The fire spread from the kitchen, causing extensive damage from flames, smoke, soot and water.
Neighbors rushed in to help, rescuing two of the family's dogs from the burning home. Sadly, one additional dog and two cats did not survive. A family bearded dragon was pulled from the wreckage and survived after receiving 24 hours of critical veterinary care.
Total damage is estimated at around $200,000, including $150,000 in structural losses and $50,000 in contents.
The incident serves as a stark reminder for pet owners to secure counters and appliances, as curious animals can unintentionally create dangerous situations in the home. The surviving dogs and bearded dragon are with the family, who are now dealing with the aftermath of the devastating but accidental blaze.
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