A 50-year-old Navy veteran died Sunday night while attempting to rescue his 10-year-old son from a rapidly spreading fire at his $800,000 home in Hollywood, Maryland. The veteran, identified as Christopher Gierhart, entered the burning residence after the blaze began shortly before 10 p.m. ET. Firefighters had been dispatched to the scene following reports of a child trapped inside the two-story home on Thornbury Drive.
Tragically, Gierhart was overcome by smoke and flames and was found deceased on the second floor of the home by investigators. It was later confirmed that his son had already escaped the burning structure and was safely outside.
The fire is believed to have originated from discarded Fourth of July sparklers that were placed in a trash can on the home's screened-in rear deck. The Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal is investigating whether the fireworks retained enough heat to ignite the trash can's contents, leading to the fire.
Gierhart, who commanded the Electronic Attack Squadron 142 Gray Wolves, had announced his engagement to Lauren Copenhaver in March 2025. Friends described Gierhart as a "wonderful man" and a "devoted father."
Following the devastating loss, community members have rallied to support Copenhaver, her son Nicholas, and Gierhart's son. GoFundMe campaigns and local businesses, including Taphouse 1637 and Fizzin’ Dirty Soda Co, LLC, have organized fundraisers to assist the family with rebuilding their home and lives.
Acting State Fire Marshal Jason Mowbray emphasized the ongoing risks associated with fireworks, even after a display has concluded. He urged the public to take precautions, such as thoroughly soaking used fireworks and sparklers in water before disposal, to prevent similar tragedies.
The warning highlighted that fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices can retain dangerous heat levels for extended periods, posing a fire risk long after they appear to be extinguished.
