Two Suspects Accused Of Murder After Remains Of Woman, Three Animals Discovered Following Home Fire

Two men are behind bars and accused of murder after a body was discovered in a Maryland home that had started on fire, authorities said.

Westmoreland County Sheriff’s Office deputies and volunteer fire personnel responded to a report of the blaze at a residence in Leonardtown shortly after midnight on Nov. 28.

Inside the home, investigators located the remains of a woman, later identified as Taylor A. Wood, 29, of Montross, as well as three animals, The Southern Maryland Chronicle reported.

A sheriff’s office investigation determined foul play was a factor in Woods’ death and they identified Michael J. Gardiner, 35, of Montross, and Demitri R. Gardiner, 28, of Leonardtown, as suspects in the case.

Both men were arrested and each faces one count each of second-degree murder and arson as well as three counts of animal cruelty.

Officials have not release further information about the ongoing investigation.