ESSEX, Md. — A devastating house fire in Essex claimed the life of a six-month-old infant Thursday evening, adding to a troubling rise in deadly residential fires across Baltimore County. Fire officials say the blaze tore through a home on Foxcroft Lane, leaving a family and the surrounding community grieving the tragic loss of a young child.
The victim has been identified as Sophia Rivera-Cortes, according to the Baltimore County Fire Department. Crews were dispatched to the 1000 block of Foxcroft Lane in the 21221 ZIP code at approximately 6:56 p.m. after receiving reports of a dwelling fire. Multiple units responded as heavy smoke and flames were reported coming from the home.
When firefighters arrived, they found fire burning on both the first and second floors of the residence. Officials said the flames were intense and had begun spreading to a neighboring home, prompting an aggressive response to prevent further damage. Firefighters entered the burning structure to search for occupants while additional crews worked to contain the fire.
During the search, firefighters located the infant inside the home. Despite their efforts, Sophia Rivera-Cortes was found deceased at the scene. An adult female and two children were able to escape the fire before crews arrived. They were transported to Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center for treatment. Authorities have not released information about their conditions.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and fire officials have not yet said where the blaze originated or what may have sparked it. Investigators will examine the scene to determine whether smoke alarms were present and functioning and if any safety factors contributed to the fire’s rapid spread through the home.
The Baltimore County Fire Department said it has seen a recent increase in fatal residential fires over the past two months, raising concerns about home fire safety. Officials are urging residents to check smoke alarms regularly, keep heating sources clear of flammable materials, and have an escape plan in place for every member of the household.
To help prevent future tragedies, the fire department is offering free home fire safety inspections and free smoke alarms to eligible residents. Those seeking fire safety tips or assistance can visit the department’s Community Risk Reduction page or call 410-887-1822. As the investigation continues, officials hope increased awareness and prevention efforts can help save lives and protect families from similar heartbreaking losses.
