ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WUSA9) -- The Boone Pyle family released a statement on the cause of the Annapolis mansion fire on Wednesday evening.
"While the explanation that has been shared with us today does not bring solace, it does start us down the long road to acceptance," the statement begins.
Fire officials announced Wednesday that the cause of the fire was an electrical failure that ignited combustible material and quickly spread to a Christmas tree in a room of the home called the "Great Room."
PREVIOUS STORY: Electrical failure caused Annapolis Mansion fire
"The fire was a result of a tragic accident that occurred at the worst possible time while the family was sleeping," officials explained.
Officials also announced that all six missing family members had been positively identified as the victims of the fire.
The full statement from the family reads as follows:
"While the explanation that has been shared with us today does not bring solace, it does start us down the long road to acceptance.
We continue to express our sincere gratitude to the Anne Arundel County Fire Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Anne Arundel County Crisis Response System, and all other assisting departments. The brave members of these organizations have faced dangerous conditions and heart-breaking discoveries, but they have repeatedly amazed us with their professionalism, respect for our family, and dedication to their work. We are grateful for their heroic efforts.
To those who have kept us in your thoughts and prayers, please know how greatly it is appreciated. Your expressions of care and support will always be with us. Likewise, our thoughts and prayers are with you. Our tragedy has touched many lives in many families, and, in different degrees, is shared by each of us. Our hope is that our loss will raise awareness that this tragic event could happen to any family.
It is our hope that each of you are strengthened in your resolve to cherish your family, friends, and good times. With life so fleeting, make every day and every moment a special time with those you love. We believe that life is about making memories. As we work through our pain and loss, the memories we made with our family will sustain us.
We ask for continued respect of our need for time and privacy as we struggle to begin healing."
RELATED STORIES:
