WALDORF, MD — A catastrophic two-alarm house fire ripped through a residence in Charles County on Sunday morning, killing at least six individuals—including four children—and prompting a widespread search and investigation.

Firefighters were dispatched around 8:40 a.m. to a home in the 3000 block of Declaration Court North. Upon arrival, emergency crews faced heavy flames and reports of people trapped inside. The situation escalated quickly, and the fire was upgraded to a two-alarm response as multiple departments raced to the scene.

As of early afternoon, officials confirmed that six people were presumed dead, and only three bodies have been recovered. Investigators are actively searching for three additional victims amid debris and hazardous conditions. Among the deceased are four children and two adults, according to The BayNet and WTOP.

Nine individuals were believed to have been inside the home at the time of the blaze, though two were reported to be absent and one managed to escape. Authorities continue to confirm the status of those unaccounted for.

An intense multi-agency response is underway, with teams from the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office, Charles County Sheriff’s Office, ATF, K9 search and rescue squads, and regional volunteer fire and EMS providing critical support. Heavy machinery is being deployed to remove wreckage and aid recovery operations.

The cause of the fire remains undetermined, and investigators have not released details on whether smoke alarms were operational. Fire Marshals emphasized the importance of fire safety measures—such as installing alarms, testing them regularly, and conducting home escape drills—to prevent similar tragedies.

This devastating event has deeply shaken the Waldorf community. Charles County Public Schools and local government issued statements expressing sorrow and extending condolences to affected families. First responders have also been supported with critical incident stress management services.