Lightning strike sparks Chestertown house fire as dog rescued from blaze

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CHESTERTOWN, Md. — A lightning strike ignited a house fire Monday night in Kent County, causing an estimated $260,000 in damage to a single-family home on Augustine Herman Highway.

The fire was reported at 7:52 p.m. at 10199 Augustine Herman Highway by the homeowner, identified as Matthew Wiltbank. The blaze originated inside the structure and was determined to be caused naturally by a lightning strike, according to the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

No injuries were reported to the homeowner or firefighters, though a pet dog suffered smoke inhalation. The animal was treated at the scene and later transported to a nearby veterinary facility for further care.

The Chestertown Volunteer Fire Company led the response with assistance from a tanker task force. Forty…