Faulty wiring and a dry Christmas tree were to blame for the death of six people in Annapolis.

Tech executive Donald Pyle, his wife Sandy and their four grandchildren never made it out alive when fire gutted their home along Child's Point Road.

Investigators said it only took a matter of minutes for the Christmas tree to fuel the flames through the 16,000 square foot mansion.

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"The fuel load from the Christmas tree itself is what created a significant amount of fire and heat to spread as quickly as it did," said Deputy Chief Scott Hoglander.

"This fire was the result of a tragic accident that occurred at the absolutely worst possible time, while the Pyles and their grandchildren were sleeping," said Bill McMullan, ATF.

A demonstration by authorities showed how fast dry Christmas trees can burn. It took only 15 seconds for flames to engulf the needles.

The Pyle's home, built in 2005, had smoke detectors but had no sprinklers.  The state now requires all new homes to have a sprinkler system.

Police said if the mansion had sprinklers installed, it would have extinguished the fire early on.

What investigators are trying to find out now is what caused the electrical outlet to fail.

"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 family said in a statement.

They thanked all the firefighters who braved dangerous conditions during their search and rescue operations.

They hope that their tragic experience could raise awareness that it can 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," the statement added.

"We ask for continued respect of our need for time and privacy as we struggle to begin healing," the family said.

Tagsannapolis, mansion fire, Don Pyle, Faulty wiring, dry Christmas tree