OCEAN CITY, Md. (AP) - The Episcopal Diocese of Easton says the pastor of an Ocean City church is one of two people dead after a fire broke out in the rectory.
Bishop James Shand says the Rev. David Dingwall died after the fire at St. Paul's By-The-Sea Episcopal Church on Tuesday morning.
Town officials say one person was pronounced dead at the scene and a second person died later. A third person suffered life-threatening injuries.
The Rev. Canon Heather Cook of the diocese says parishioners reported that a person whose clothes were on fire ran in from the street to the church office and food ministry, screaming for help.
Authorities did not confirm that account and say the cause of the fire is under investigation.
Jessica Waters, a spokeswoman for Ocean City, told the paper that authorities have taken statements from several witnesses and are urging anyone with photos or video to come forward.
The Salisbury Daily Times reports there were around 60 shares and more than 30 comments within three hours of posting expressing sadness over the Dingwall's death.
All church activities have been suspended until further notice at St. Paul's.
