A Christmas Eve electrical fire in Bel Air, Md., destroyed a home and killed one dog, with two others missing.

A Christmas Eve fire in Bel Air, Maryland, caused by an electrical failure at the base of a Christmas tree, destroyed a home and killed one dog, with two others missing. The blaze, which erupted just after 6:30 p.m. on Flintlock Drive, rapidly spread through the structure while occupants were away. Neighbors attempted to rescue pets, breaking windows and kicking in doors; one dog was saved. The home and all contents were destroyed, declared a total loss. The Harford County Disaster Assistance team and the Red Cross are supporting the six-person family. The fire investigation is ongoing, with officials warning of risks posed by electrical issues in holiday decorations.