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Leonardtown assistant fire chief’s home destroyed in fire; donation set up
Summary
An Assistant Fire Chief from Leonardtown lost his home in a house fire last week; no people were hurt but family keepsakes, pets and possession were lost. A donation fund through the Yard Foundation has been established to help the family.
Unidentified Speaker said Assistant Fire Chief Chris Bell of Leonardtown lost his home in a house fire last week; no people were injured.
The speaker, addressing the St. Mary's County Board of Commissioners meeting, said, “They lost their pets. They lost all of their possessions. Everything destroyed, a terrible tragedy.” The remarks noted Bell’s role as both a professional firefighter and a dedicated community volunteer.
The speaker described the emotional toll of the loss: keepsakes and family memories — such as baby blankets, early haircuts and handprints — were destroyed, and only some photos from cell phones remain.
A donation process has been set up through the Yard Foundation to help the Bell family. The speaker said the community is rallying around the family and encouraged residents who wish to contribute to use that fund.
No further operational details about the family's needs, insurance status, or a timeline for recovery were provided during the remarks. The meeting did not record any formal action by the board related to the fire; the donation channel via the Yard Foundation was presented as the immediate avenue for assistance.
