HARFORD COUNTY, Md. — This holiday season has been heartbreaking for a family in Bel Air, as they tragically lost their home along with their beloved dogs due to a fire on Christmas Eve.
In an uplifting turn of events, the local community has come together to support them during this difficult time.
While attending church on Christmas Eve, Emilee Axelsson received the devastating news that her family’s home was engulfed in flames. The cause was determined to be an accident involving the lights on their Christmas tree.
While the family has lost everything, their primary concern lies elsewhere at the moment.
“We haven’t even processed the loss of our home because we are so consumed with worrying about the dogs. That’s our top priority,” Emilee shared.
Thanks to a neighbor, one of their dogs was rescued from the blaze. Regrettably, another dog did not survive, and two others—Teddy and Mac—managed to escape the flames but have been missing ever since.
LeeAnne Axelsson expressed her feelings, saying, “The uncertainty surrounding our dogs is the hardest part. If anyone has seen them, we desperately need to bring them home. We can’t move forward until we know where they are. It’s incredibly challenging.”
On Friday evening, the community demonstrated their solidarity, as Fallston Barrel House pledged to donate a portion of their sales from Thursday and Friday to support the family.
“Whenever we have an opportunity to assist, we seize it. We want to stand by our community,” stated Manager Joshua Ruszczewski.
Ruszczewski expressed amazement at the community’s immediate response, saying, “It hit us like a wave. Guests were piling in and asking, ‘Is this donation going to the Hardin-Axelsson family, or do we need to mention it?’”
LeeAnne added that the outpouring of support has been incredible.
“It’s heartwarming to see how everyone is teaming up—working hand in hand to help us raise funds to rebuild our house while also searching for our pets. The number of people stepping up has truly amazed us,” she said.
In their efforts to locate the missing dogs, the community has fashioned makeshift shelters from storage bins and has been reaching out with leads, though no confirmed sightings have emerged yet.
“We kindly ask that you refrain from calling out their names if you see them. Instead, crouch down to their level and remain seated so they feel more comfortable,” advised LeeAnne.
If you happen to spot any of their missing furry friends, please call 443-695-3234 or 443-528-9177.
