2 Dogs Die in Middletown Fire

Five firefighters were injured and two dogs died in a Middletown Township house fire Saturday night, according to fire officials.

The 305 Howarth Road fire occurred at about 8:34 p.m. on Saturday.

Two firefighters were transported to a hospital with minor injuries and both were released later that evening, according to Middletown Fire Co. Chief Chip Lillie. Three others were treated at the scene for very minor injuries, Lillie said.

Fire Marshal Allen Mancill said two dogs died in the fire and there was complete destruction of the house and garage.

"The house was heavily involved when crews arrived," Mancill said.

The owners of the house were not at home at the time of the fire, he said.

The fire appears to have started in the family room vicinity of the house and is still under investigation by fire marshal, state police and county detectives, Mancill said.

The fire was under control by about 10:02 p.m.

Along with Middletown Fire Co., Rocky Run, Media and Brookhaven responded to the scene. And additional alarms brought Marcus Hook, Aston Beechwood, Lower Chichester Linwood and Feltonville.