The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal is investigating a structure fire that was reported on March 30, 2026 shortly before 7:00 AM in the 16000 block of Coastal Highway Lewes, Delaware.

The Lewes Fire Department and assisting mutual aid fire companies arrived on scene and found fire showing on the patio area of a single-story unit at the Red Mill Inn. The structure was occupied at the time of the fire. A female occupant and a child were able to escape without injury by exiting through a ground floor window.

Delaware Deputy State Fire Marshals responded to the scene and conducted an origin and cause investigation. It was determined that the fire was Accidental in nature and caused by the spontaneous combustion of oil-saturated clothing located in a hamper on the exterior patio of the structure. Fire damage was estimated at $3,000.00. There were no other reported injuries.

Chief Deputy John M. Galaska
Delaware State Fire Marshal
22705 Park Avenue
Georgetown, Delaware
(302) 856-5600 Office

Print