June 3rd, 2018 by WCBC Radio
A joint investigation is underway between Deputy State Fire Marshals of the Office of the State Fire Marshal and detectives with Washington County Sheriffs Office after a fatal fire early this morning which claimed the life of a two-year old toddler.
On June 3, 2018 at 1:03 a.m. the Maugansville Volunteer Fire Company and surrounding fire companies were dispatched for a dwelling fire at 15807 Shinham Road of Hagerstown.
Upon arrival, firefighters discovered three adults outside of the home stating a toddler was still in the home and was possibly located within the basement. Firefighters made entry and rescued the infant and immediately transported to Meritus Medical Center in Hagerstown. Life saving measures were performed however the victim was subsequently pronounced deceased by hospital staff.
Investigators have been on scene throughout the night conducting and origin and cause investigation and preliminary reports determined the home is owned by James and Beth Clopein. The Clopein's and their daughter, Dana Clopein (age 29) were in the one-story, wood frame rancher when Dana Clopein, who was babysitting for a Hagerstown family, discovered a fire within the basement of the home. An attempt to extinguish the fire was made by both Clopein and her father however both were overcome by heavy smoke.
The victim will be transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner where positive identification will be made and the cause and manner of death determined.
The one-alarm incident brought 30 firefighters to the scene and took approximately 15 minutes to bring under control. The fire was contained to the basement with only minor smoke damage to the remainder of the home.
A joint investigation between the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the primary local jurisdiction is standard operating procedure whenever a fatal fire occurs.
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