Grandmother, grandson killed in Waldorf house fire

WALDORF, Md. - Authorities say a grandmother and her grandson were killed in a fire at a Charles County home.

The Maryland State Fire Marshal's office says the first 911 call was received from someone inside the home on Poplar Hill Road in Waldorf around 12:30 a.m. Wednesday. Firefighters from at least six agencies controlled the fire that consumed nearly half the home.

Officials say four people inside the home were able to escape after the smoke alarm sounded, but firefighters found the woman and boy inside.

The Charles County Sheriff's Office identified the victims as 68-year-old Bernice Washington and 6-year-old Zavion Atkins.

Officials say one firefighter was taken to a hospital with a back injury, but has been released.

A community prayer was held outside the home Wednesday afternoon as friends and family gathered to support each other. The American Red Cross will be finding a place for everyone to stay and helping with necessary items.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.