No Foul Play in Kirby Circle Fire

Foul play was not involved in fire that Feb. 23, according to the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

"An extensive joint investigation by the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the has revealed no evidence of foul play was involved with the fatal fire," a release from the state fire marshal.

Police received a suspicious call that day for a fire in the 1200 block of Kirby Circle. Kathleen Ellis, 44, used the word "raped" and said a man was threatening her when she called 911, according to police.

Ellis was rescued from the home by deputies. She was taken to with burns and smoke inhalation. She died that day in the hospital.

"The victim, Kathleen M. Ellis died from smoke inhalation after bedding materials were ignited by a lit cigarette," the release stated.

The fire caused about $40,000 in damage to the townhouse.

Kirby Circle is off of Foxborough Drive near Maryland Route 543.