Community Rallies Around Survivor of Lansdowne Fire

A fire engulfed the home of Edna McCann and her son, Robert, on Aug. 25. Edna, a beloved member of the community, died in the fire, while her son remains in the burn center at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center. 

Robert’s family had expected him to be able to come home last Tuesday, and they are now waiting to see how he is doing.

In the meantime, local realtors Michelle and Sean Triplett, of Cornerstone Realty on Hammonds Ferry Road in Lansdowne, are spearheading an effort to raise money on his behalf. They have set up an account in Robert’s name at M&T bank for donations.

The fire is estimated to have caused $100,000 in damages. 

“He needs clothes and toiletries. He could also use gift certificates for local restaurants like McDonald's or pizza places. He doesn’t have the means to cook for himself,” explained Michelle Triplett. 

The McCanns' home is directly behind the realty office, and Edna had become a friend to the Triplett family.

Edna, who had just turned 90 years old this May, had lived in the community her whole life, recalled Betty Colvin, neighbor and friend.

“She moved into that house in the 1930s, but before she had just lived two houses up,” said Colvin.

Edna was a respected member of their community, said Colvin.

“I took her to the doctor, and she took me if anything happened,” said Colvin.

Robert, who is 60 years old and is Edna’s only child, was the light of her life, according to Colvin. 

“She did everything she could to keep him safe, and he needed a little extra help,” said Colvin.

As family and friends in his community wait to hear news on his condition, the Tripletts hope to see more donations come in for Robert.