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Gaithersburg, MD--Kate Peterson, a beloved and respected jewelry industry consultant, was critically injured in a house fire in her home on Easter morning.

Several local news reports indicate that there was a house fire at 1 a.m. Easter Sunday in Gaithersburg, MD., that injured four family members and killed three dogs. The fire is on the street where Peterson and her family lives. News reports indicate that one person was critically injured and had to be resuscitated at the scene of the fire. Peterson has been identified as that person through friends on social media. They further indicate that she was placed on life support. The fire is under investigation but there is no indication of carelessness or foul play, according to news reports. 

We've have learned through the same network of friends that she was placed in an induced coma and was likely without oxygen for a prolonged length of time prior to being resuscitated. Because of this her family has decided to take her off the life support apparatus.

Peterson, a well-known and well-respected writer and speaker in the jewelry industry, is best known for the past 26 years as the founder of Performance Concepts where she has helped hundreds of retailers and others in the jewelry industry to improve their businesses. She specializes in retail jewelry but has full knowledge of the entire jewelry industry and has helped companies throughout the jewelry supply chain. She is especially known for her intelligence and wit. She is known as someone who can offer both quick solutions and long-term planning. Most importantly she is loved and respected among those in the industry.

Word is still getting out but there has been a few on facebook have posted words of encouragement and prayer.

A post on Jewelers Helping Jewelers Facebook page reads:

“I don't usually ask for prayer but this is a tough one...Kate Peterson is one of the most brilliant women I have ever met. She has given our industry HER HEART soul and time. She was critically burned in a house fire last night. She has burns all over and is fighting for her life. I know prayers help. Even if you are not religious please take a moment to ask what ever power you believe in to bring her much needed healing.”

It has received 583 comments of prayers and support as of Tuesday morning.

This is an ongoing story, and more information will come as we receive it.