Halethorpe house fire victim dies after rescue; investigators cite improper lighter use as cause

A fatal outcome days after a nighttime rescue

A man injured in a house fire in Halethorpe has died after several days of treatment, marking another early-year fire fatality in Baltimore County.

The fire broke out at a single-family home at about 9:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 2, 2026. Responding firefighters encountered flames coming from the second floor and located 59-year-old Dennis Randle unconscious inside the home. Emergency medical care began at the scene before he was transported to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore.

Randle died from his injuries on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026.

Other injuries and rescue efforts

Authorities said a second resident was injured but survived after getting out through a window with assistance from neighbors. A firefighter was also treated for minor injuries connected to the response.

The incident highlights the layered nature of residential fire emergencies: occupants may need help evacuating quickly, neighbors may become first responders before crews arrive, and firefighters face hazards even in rescues that unfold within minutes.

Investigation: fire ruled accidental

Fire investigators determined the Halethorpe fire was accidental and attributed it to the improper use of a lighter. Officials did not release additional details about the specific circumstances of the lighter use.

Investigators’ findings place the case within a broader pattern seen in residential fire safety messaging, where small ignition sources—lighters, matches, candles, or smoking-related materials—can trigger fast-moving indoor fires, particularly when combustible items are nearby.

Fire fatalities in Baltimore County and statewide context

With Randle’s death, Baltimore County recorded its fourth fire fatality of 2026 as of Feb. 6.

Across Maryland, recent statewide tallies have shown residential fires account for the clear majority of fire deaths. Prior-year tracking also identified smoking materials among leading causes of fatal fires, alongside electrical malfunctions and cooking-related incidents.

What fire officials emphasize for prevention

• Keep ignition sources such as lighters and matches secured and away from children.
• Limit open-flame use and avoid handling flames when impaired, fatigued, or using medications that can cause drowsiness.
• Maintain working smoke alarms and practice an escape plan that includes two exits from rooms when possible.

If you have information relevant to a fire investigation or safety concerns in your neighborhood, local fire officials encourage residents to contact non-emergency channels to share details.