Fatal House Fire in Chestertown

Updated:
March 4, 2019 to include responding units
March 5, 2019 to include names of the deceased.

KENT COUNTY, MD – Deputies from the State Fire Marshal’s Office are continuing to investigate a fire that took the lives of Helen Rebecca Rodney (65) (Owner) and Gwendolyn Taylor Rodney (80) (Occupant) of 828 Washington Avenue.

The 911 call was received at approximately 2:55 p.m. from a passerby who saw smoke coming from the structure. The first arriving units discovered smoke showing to the exterior of the two story house. An initial search of the house Helen Rodney was discovered and was promptly transported to University of Maryland, Shore Medical Center at Chestertown for treatment where she succumbed to her injuries.

There were reports that there was another person in the house and the search was renewed. Gwendolyn Rodney was located and removed from the structure and was declared deceased at the scene.

A smoke alarm was located inside the structure. It is unknown if it activated. The origin of the fire was in the basement. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Total damages are estimated at approximately $40,000.

The victims were transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore for autopsies to determine their exact cause of death. The Maryland State Police Criminal Enforcement Division is conducting the death investigation.

Responding to the call were the Chestertown Volunteer Fire Company, Kennedyville Volunteer Fire Company, Church Hill Volunteer Fire Company, Crumpton Volunteer Fire Company, Kent & Queen Annes Rescue Squad and Kent County EMS.

Editor’s Note:
Celebration of Life for Gwendolyn Taylor Rodney and Helen Rebecca Rodney
Sunday March 10 at 2pm
First United Methodist Church
105 North Mill Street
Chestertown, MD 21620
Reception to follow service
Burial will be private