House fire in Bel Air causes evacuations

A house caught fire in Bel Air after being struck by a vehicle, officials said.

Firefighters were on the scene in the 1700 block of Woodhome Drive in Bel Air around 8:15 p.m.

The fire was caused by a vehicle crashing into a home and hitting a gas line, causing a leak, according to officials. The engine of the van ignited and spread into the home.

The driver of the vehicle has been identified, but fled the scene, and Harford County Sheriff's Officers are attempting to locate them, a spokesperson said.

BGE and the Maryland State Fire Marshal were called to assist with putting the fire out and ensuring the safety of the surrounding buildings.

No injuries were reported, although two dogs died.

Surrounding homes were evacuated as a precaution due to the nature of the situation, but have since been deemed safe to return to.

The fire was under control after roughly a half hour, a spokesman said.