MFD MarchApril 2025 Editionv1

Distributed in Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia Vol. 41, No. 2

March/April 2025

Two Alarms House Fire in Potomac Story on Page 56 Photos Courtesy MCFRS

4 Alarm Fire on North Fulton Avenue Story on Page 22-23 Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III

Remember Those Who Made The Supreme Sacrifice on 9-11-01

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March/April 2025 – 3

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INDEX March/April 2025 County News Anne Arundel................................................................Page 06 Baltimore.......................................................................Page 26 Chester...........................................................................Page 14 Howard...........................................................................Page 08 Lancaster.......................................................................Page 38 Montgomery..................................................................Page 54 Northeast.......................................................................Page 44 Prince George’s............................................................Page 49 Southern Maryland.....................................................Page 34 Western Maryland.......................................................Page 50 Annapolis FD...................................................................Page 46 Baltimore City FD..........................................................Page 16 Eastern Shore..................................................................Page 32 MIEMSS.................................................................. Page 04 & 58 Salisbury FD....................................................................Page 42 Virginia Apparatus.........................................................Page 52

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March/April 2025 – 5

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Anne Arundel County Fire Department “Committed To Your Safety”

Trisha Wolford - Fire Chief 410-222-8305 The Nations Premier Combination Fire Service

Plane Crash in Edgewater

On February 22, 2025, AACoFD was dispatched to the area of Triton Beach Road and Shoreham Beach Road for a reported plane crash.

Units arrived and found a single-engine Cessna aircraft that had lost power and made an emergency landing.

The pilot, an 18-year-old, was taken to a medical center for their injuries..

The crash remains under investigation.

Photos Courtesy AACoFD

Silver Patrick Henry Medal Lieutenant Kinnier of our Fire and Explosives Investigation Unit was awarded the Silver Patrick Henry Medal by the The Military Order of the World Wars. Lieutenant Kinnier is a huge asset to our department. We would like to congratulate Lt Kinnier.

Photo Courtesy AACoFD

March/April 2025 – 7

AA County FD News

Dwelling Fire in Linthicum Story and Photos Courtesy Mike Hugg Media

On February 02, 2025, at approximately 1643 hrs, AACoFD responded to the 1100 block of Armistead Street, in Linthicum, for a reported dwelling fire.

Anne Arundel County Fire Alarm received a call from a passerby near the location reporting fire from the back of the house and the house being surrounded by smoke.

As firefighters were responding, Fire Alarm began receiving multiple callers reporting the house on fire, and Engine 321 reported a column of smoke in the distance and requested the Working Fire Dispatch.

Firefighters arrived to find a one-story, type 5, single-family home with smoke showing and heavy fire visible from the rear of the dwelling.

Firefighters began knocking the fire on the exterior in the rear of the home as additional crews began laddering the home and getting lines inside through the front and the rear door to get a knock on the fire that entered and began running the attic space.

There were no injuries to report, and the American Red Cross was requested to assist the displaced homeowners.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Anne Arundel County Fire and Explosives Investigation Unit.

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Howard County Station, Apparatus & Fire News

Fire Chief Louis Winston Submitted by Assistant Chief Pat LePore, Howard County DFRS

Assistant Chief Rick Leonard Retirement On January 31, 2025, AC Rick Leonard retired from Howard County DFRS after serving the citizens of Howard County for 26 years. A graduate of Trainee Class # 13, AC Leonard served as a paramedic for his entire career. Chief Leonard served on several busy medic units throughout the County. His passion for EMS was evident with his involvement with assisting in EMS Courses at the Training Academy and ultimately working with the CPR-Resuscitation Academy. Chief Leonard would serve in several Medical Duty Officer positions while as a promoted Captain and Battalion Chief. His final assignment was as Assistant Chief overseeing the Bureau of Education and Training, where is passion for teaching once again was evident with assisting in the delivery of all-hazards/ EMS/etc. training courses. Congratulations on a great 26 years of service!!!

Photo by Howard County DFRS

Outstanding Provider of the Year Award-2024

Recently, FF/Paramedic Nicholas Boer was honored with being selected as the General George G. Meade Chapter of the Military Order of the World Wars with the First responders Award as the Outstanding Provider of the Year-2024 for Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services. FF/P Boer was honored at the event with his family and Fire Chief Louis Winston present at the gala event. Congratulations to FF/P Nicholas Boer, a great honor!!!

Photo by Howard County DFRS

Master FF/ Paramedic/ HVO Matt Grigsby Retirement On February 28, 2025, MFF/P/HVO Matt Grigsby retired after serving over 25 years of service to the citizens of Howard County. A graduate of Trainee Class # 14, MFF/P/HVO Matt Grigsby served at several fire stations throughout his career, including at stations 7, 5, 6, and 13.

MFF/P/HVO served on several busy medic units after he became a paramedic. Known for his calm demeanor and constant & quiet drive, MFF/P/ HVO Grigsby was someone you could always depend on, regardless of the situation. MFF/P/HVO Grigsby’s last assignment was as the Tanker-13 HVO (Glenwood), congratulations on a great 25 years career!!!

Photo by Howard County DFRS

March/April 2025 – 9

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HCDFRS News

Jessup Building Fire On February 18, 2025, a Box Alarm was sounded alerting stations 12 (Waterloo), 1 (Elkridge), 6 (Savage), 9 (Long Reach), 29 (Jessup-AACo), 10 (Rivers Park), 21 (Harmans/Dorsey-AACo), BC-1, BC-2, EMS-2, and Safety-1 for the reported building fire in the 7100 block of Kit Kat Road for a possible building fire at the trash transfer facility.

Crews arrived to find heavy smoke coming from the building. Additional information was received from employees that the fire involved a conveyor belt on fire in the building. A working fire dispatch was started brining additional units to assist. The fire would take about 45 minutes to bring under control and several hours of overhaul to finally extinguish.

The cause is under investigation by Howard County FI’s. Command was held by BC-1 (K. Panazari).

Photo by Howard County DFRS

Battalion Chief Steve Hardesty Retirement On February 28, 2025, Battalion Chief Hardesty retired after serving 35 years to the citizens of Howard County. A member of Trainee Class # 8, Chief Hardesty worked throughout several stations in the County, including stations 7, 2, and several long stints at station 10. Chief Hardesty also assisted with several Academy Classes while assigned to Education & Training. Some of his most lasting impacts will be felt while helping expand the capabilities of the County’s Special Operations Team. Chief Hardesty’s love and passion for Special Operations is observed daily and evident in his commitment to teaching, recertifying, and expanding the Special Operations capabilities not only in Howard County, but as being an active leader with Maryland Task Force-1 (MDTF-1) that is based in Rockville with the Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Services. Chief Hardesty has been on numerous deployments throughout the United States and abroad and is a huge part of that team’s leadership, passion, and drive to want to help the citizens after a disaster has struck. Chief Hardesty’s final assignment was at Battalion Chief-10 (the daywork Special Operations Chief in Operations). Chief Hardesty’s passion will continue well after his retirement as many of his team/shift mates have been entrusted to continue to carry on with the mission of Educate/Protect/Serve, something that Chief Hardesty embodied each and every day!! Congratulations Chief Hardesty on an amazing 35 Years of Service!!

Photo by Howard County DFRS

Glenwood House Fire

On January 25, 2025, a Box Alarm was sounded alerting stations 13 (Glenwood), 4 (Lisbon), 3 (West Friendship), 5 (Fifth District), 12 (Sykesville-Carroll Co), 8 (Bethany), 1 (Mt. Airy-Carroll Co), BC-3, BC-2, EMS-3, and Safety-1 for the reported house fire in the 2800 block of Belle Hollow Court.

Units arrived to find a working fire in a large-2 story single family home. A working fire dispatch along with a tanker task force was alerted bring additional units from stations 717 (Laytonsville-MCFR), 1 (Mt. Airy-Carroll Co), 14 (Winfield-Carroll Co), 2 (Ellicott City), 7 (Banneker), 11 (Scaggsville), 15 (New Market-Frederick Co), 713 (Damascus-MCFR), 704 (Sandy Spring-MCFR), Assistant Chief-1 (Shift Commander), and support staff to assist. Command set up a rural water supply using several Fire & Rescue underground cisterns in the area. Firefighters had to deal with extreme cold conditions as well. It would take several hours to bring the fire under control and the cause is under investigation by Howard County FI’s.

Photo by Howard County DFRS

Mayfield Townhouse Fire On February 5, 2025, a Box Alarm was sounded alerting stations 12 (Waterloo), 9 (Long Reach), 1 (Elkridge), 2 (Ellicott City), 29 (Jessup-AACo), 6 (Savage), 14 (Merriweather), BC-1, BC-2, EMS-2, and Safety-1 for the reported townhouse on fire in the 8000 block of Green Tree Court.

Units arrived on the scene to find an end unit, 2 story townhouse with a working fire. Additional units from stations 10 (Rivers Park), 2 (Ellicott City), 21 (Harmans Dorsey-AACo), AC-1 (Shift Commander) and support staff responded to assist. Crews were able to bring the fire under control within 30 minutes and it would take several hours to perform extensive overhaul operations.

The cause is under investigation by Howard County FI’s.

Photo by Howard County DFRS

March/April 2025 – 11

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HCDFRS News

TANKER 4

Lisbon

Volunteer Fire Company Station 4

2024 Peterbilt 367 Extended Cab/2025 4Guys Cummins X15 – 565 hp Diesel Allison EVS-4000 Automatic Transmission 3500 Gallon Elliptical Water Tank Waterous 1500GPM Pump 2-10” Square Side Dumps – 1-10” Square Rear Dump Photo Courtesy Assistant Chief Pat LaPore, HCDFRS

Dorsey Building Fire On February 20, 2025, a Box Alarm was sounded alerting stations 12 (Waterloo), 1 (Elkridge), 21 (Harmans Dorsey-AACo), 2 (Ellicott City), 9 (Long Reach), 10 (Rivers Park), 5 (Halethorpe-BCoFD), BC-1, BC-2, EMS1, and Safety-1 for the reported building fire in the 6600 block of Amberton Drive.

Units arrived to find a large warehouse with rack storage and pallet storage of paper products with a working fire inside the warehouse with a sprinkler activation. A working fire dispatch was alerted bringing additional units from stations 6 (Savage), 35 (Arbutus-BCoFD), 7 (Banneker), 43 (BWI-TM Airport FD), 14 (Merriweather), 9 (Long Reach), 29 (Jessup-AACo), 4 (Severn-AACo), AC-1 (Shift Commander) and support staff to assist.

Crews fought the deep seated and stubborn fire for several hours as part of the large pallets and portions of the rack storge collapsed inside the warehouse. Due to the large area and cold smoke conditions, large ventilation fan units from AA County Fire RamFan-1 (MD City), and an Air Boat from Frederick County, Air Boat-28 (Carroll Manor-Frederick Co) responded to assist with smoke removal. No injuries occurred and the fire took over 8 hours to finally extinguish. The scene was commanded by BC-1 (M. Stout).

Photos Courtesy Howard County DFRS

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HCDFRS News

Townhouse Fire in Columbia On February 28, 2025, at approximately 2000 hrs, firefighters were alerted to a kitchen fire in a townhouse located in the 11700 block of Lone Tree Court, Columbia.

All residents had evacuated prior to crews arrival. The fire was quickly brought under control with no extension into any other room.

No injuries were reported and three residents were displaced.

Photo by Howard County DFRS

Triadelphia House Fire On February 5, 2025, a Box Alarm was sounded alerting stations 5 (Fifth District), 3 (West Friendship), 7 (Banneker), 13 (Glenwood), 8 (Bethany), 2 (Ellicott City), EMS/BC-3, BC-2, and Safety-1 for a reported house fire in the 12000 block of Folly Quarter Road.

Units arrived to find a working fire on the second floor and requested the working fire dispatch and tanker task force to assist. Additional units from stations 14 (Merriweather), 9 (Long Reach), 6 (Savage), 4 (Lisbon), 11 (Scaggsville), 704 (Sandy Spring-MCFR), AC-1 (Shift Commander), and support Staff responded to assist. Crews were able to bring the fire under control within 15 minutes and the scene was scaled back to the first alarm.

The cause is currently under investigation by Howard County FI’s.

Photo by Howard County DFRS

Owen Brown Townhouse Fire On February 19, 2025, a Box Alarm was sounded alerting stations 14 (Merriweather), 9 (Long Reach), 7 (Banneker), 10 (Rivers Park), 2 (Ellicott City), BC-10, BC-1, EMS-2, and Safety-1 for the reported townhouse fire in the 6500 block of Sweet Fern Court.

Units arrived to find a working fire in a 2-story middle of the group townhouse and requested the working fire dispatch to assist. Additional units from stations 6 (Savage), 12 (Waterloo), 1 1(Scaggsville), BC-2 and support staff responded to assist. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes.

The scene was commanded by BC-10 (S. Hardesty) and the cause is under investigation by Howard County FI’s at this time.

Photos by Howard County DFRS

March/April 2025 – 13

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Chester County News

Chimney Fire in East Brandywine Township On February 25, 2025, at 0340 hrs, East Brandywine and surround stations were alerted to the 500 block of Rock Raymond Road for a reported chimney fire.

Battalion 49 arrived to find fire through the roof of a single story ranch, and requested the working fire upgrade along with the tanker task force. Crews established RIT, and assisted with laddering the structure.

Additional crews got in line to pump-off while its crew supplemented the RIT assignment.

Honey Brook units assisted with salvage, overhaul, and mop-up operations before clearing the scene. Battalion 49 held the East Brandywine Command.

Photo Courtesy Honey Brook FC

Outbuilding Fire in Highland Township On February 19, 2025, at 14:20 Keystone Valley and surrounding stations were dispatched to the 200 block of Old Limestone Road in Highland Township for a outbuilding fire.

Units were advised by the Chester County 911 Center that the caller reported a shed fully involved. Assistant 27 (Lapp) arrived and assumed command for this incident and advised that he had a 30x30 outbuilding fully involved.

Units arrived, and their crew pulled a handline and began suppression efforts.

The Chester County and Local Fire Marshal’s have the cause of the fire under investiagtion.

Photos Courtesy Keystone Valley FD

March/April 2025 – 15

Chester County News

2 Alarm House Fire In West Sadsbury Twp. Story and Photos Courtesy Keystone Valley FD On February 27, 2025, at 1742 hrs, Keystone Valley and surrounding stations were dispatched to the 4000 block of Church Road in West Sadsbury Township for a house fire.

Units responding were advised by the Chester County 911 Center that the caller reported the rear of the house on fire. The caller also reported that the 2nd floor had collapsed into the first floor and they believed a propane explosion may have started the fire.

Deputy 8 (Cazillo) arrived to find a large 2.5 story dwelling with smoke and fire showing to the rear. Crews deployed hose lines and began suppression efforts. Ladder 8 arrived and set up for master stream operations.

Deputy 8 held the command for this incident and Assistant 8 (Delestienne) held the “Charlie” division. A response was requested from the Chester County Hazmat team for the potential of a propane leak.

Interior crews reported fire throughout division 1 and 2 on the charlie side. Deputy 8 requested a tanker task force as water sources are scarce for this area. As mutual aid units arrived, they were given their assignments by the commander. Chief 8 (Marks) arrived and assumed the division 1 officer role. Due to the integrity of the structure interior crews were evacuated from the fire building and exterior suppression efforts commenced.

A 2nd Alarm Tanker Task Force (TTF) was requested as master stream operations were now placed into service. The commander requested a response from the local utility companies to secure the electric and propane going to the residence.

The county fire marshal’s office has the cause of the fire under investigation.

16 – March/April 2025

Baltimore City

Fatal Construction Accident in Catonsville

Story and Photos Courtesy Howard Meile, III On February 28th two construction workers were killed when an exterior basement wall collapsed on them while they were working in a trench alongside the wall. Two other workers were uninjured in the accident. Baltimore County dispatch received a 9-1-1 call around 1130 hours reporting a collapse at a private residence at 507 Academy Road in Catonsville. When the first units from Westview and Catonsville arrived they reported that they had a stone wall approximately 10 ’tall x 15’ long that had fallen outward into a 6’ wide trench and two workers were reported trapped underneath. As the first responders assessed the situation they requested the Special Operations Team from Company 17 along with Baltimore City as well as Howard County’s Special Operations Teams Rescuers on the scene began pulling rocks from the downed wall and shoring up the freestanding joists of the exterior porch that was connected to the wall. The crew from Pikesville VFD Confined Space Team began using their fiber optic camera to try to locate the trapped workers underneath the wall.

For the next several hours crews methodically and aggressively worked to move pieces of the stone wall to reach the victims. Firefighters hand dug through the stones and debris and were aided by Howard County’s Crane 10 to move the larger and heavier pieces of stone and concrete. Crane 10 is equipped with a 21’ Palfinger telescoping crane arm and was invaluable to the rescue operation.

For the next four hours they continued to dig through the debris removing large stones from the collapsed wall. They finally reached the first victim and removed him around 1500 hours. He was pronounced deceased on the scene. The second victim, also deceased, was located and recovered around 20 minutes later in the same area. They would be released to the State Medical Examiner. Units remained on the scene for several more hours while authorities from County Police, OSHA, Public Works and others conducted their investigations on the cause of the accident.

March/April 2025 – 17

Baltimore City FD News

Dwelling Fire in NW Baltimore

Story and Photos Courtesy Mike Hugg Media On February 05, 2025, at approximately 2214 hrs, BCFD responded to the 1600 block of McCulloh Street for the reported dwelling fire.

Firefighters arrived to a two story end of the group store front with fire showing from the second floor apartment above the store.

Firefighters began an aggressive interior attack and quickly contained the fire located in the bedroom, to the room and contents.

Once the fire was placed under control, the box assignment was scaled back.

No one was injured, and the cause of the fire is under investigation by the Baltimore City Fire Department’s Fire Investigation Bureau.

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Baltimore City FD News

2 Alarm Fire on Reisterstown Road

Story and Photos Courtesy Howard Meile, III On March 2, 2025, around 1130 hrs, Fire box 29-40 was struck out for a reported dwelling fire in the 3600 block of Reisterstown Road, in northwest Baltimore. The first arriving units encountered a whole row of 2 ½ story, Code X-Ray” vacant dwellings with the one at 3624 well involved in fire.

The initial orders were exterior operations only. Companies began setting up ladder pipes. Command requested the working fire and a special call for Tower 1 to be set up in front. Access in the rear was limited because of heavy vegetation on all of the vacant dwellings.

Firefighters used handlines and ladder pipes in the front and were having trouble getting at the interior fire due to a collapse in the original fire building. The fire was spreading to both sides through a common cockloft and was buried under the fallen debris. Shift Commander Mark Ruff arrived on the scene and took Command and requested the second alarm around noon. Units continued to pour water onto the fire and it was placed under control in about 90 minutes.

There were no injuries reported and FIB was on the scene to determine the cause of the fire. Traffic was detoured around the scene and companies remained on the scene mopping up hot spots for another hour.

March/April 2025 – 19

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Baltimore City FD News

Working Fire in West Baltimore

Story and Photos Courtesy Howard Meile, III On February 19, 2025, Fire Box 13-50 was dispatched for a report of a dwelling fire in the 1300 block Argyle Avenue. Engine 13 was first to arrive and was greeted with a 3-story vacant “Code X-Ray” end of group dwelling with heavy smoke showing from front and back. The smoke was visible for miles around. Within minutes fire was pushing from the second and third floors and through the roof. Additional units began arriving and immediately set up for exterior operations. The adjacent house on side D was occupied so crews searched and made sure that all occupants were out. There was limited access to the rear due to trees and heavy overgrown vegetation on the vacant buildings.

Tower 1 set up their tower in the front and along with several handlines began to knock down the visible fire. Battalion Chief 3, Mike Rudasill had Command and requested a working fire assignment within 6 minutes to augment resources on the scene. There was an interior collapse during the firefight, and it took about an hour to bring the fire under control. No injuries were reported and there was minor damage to the roof of the occupied dwelling next door.

March/April 2025 – 21

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Baltimore City FD News

Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III

4 Alarm Fire on North Fulton Avenue

Story Courtesy Howard Meile, III Early in the morning of March 7, 2025 a building fire was reported in the 2200 block of North Fulton Avenue in the Penn-North section of northwest Baltimore. Fire Communications dispatched Fire Box 52-40 at 0342 hours. Engine 52 arrived on the scene within minutes and reported heavy fire in 2227 extending into a church on one side and a vacant “Code X-Ray” dwelling on the other side. Battalion Chief 3 arrived and took Command reporting three 2-story buildings heavily involved in fire. He then ordered Engine 52 to put their deck gun in service and made it a working fire along with a special call for Tower 1. People were reported living in houses at 2223 and 2221 and were promptly evacuated by the crew of Truck 16. Battalion Chief 5 reported to the rear and reported fire through the roof and was walking down the roofs towards the south end of the block. Command then requested a second alarm at 0353.

As units arrived ladder pipes were set up at the north end of the street as well as the front side of the block. By now three buildings were fully involved and impinging on a fourth one, with a stiff wind driving the fire along the roof and through a common cockloft down the block of houses. As the fire was rapidly spreading Command requested engine companies to start setting up with heavy water hook-ups.

Firefighters were getting ahead of the fire entering several houses and going to the upper floors checking for extension. As the fire continued to overtake these dwellings Command ordered evacuations of the houses that they were in. As more units arrived they continued to hook up and put ladder pipes in service as well as large handlines. At 0413 Command ordered the third alarm as the fire was rapidly taking hold of the roofs and second floors, continuing down the block. He reported that the fire was now in all of the buildings from 2229 through 2217 and they were trying to make a stop at 2215. Crews were again entering houses ahead of the fire trying to cut it off but were ordered to evacuate again as the fire burned viciously above them. When the Shift Commander arrived on the fireground he took over Command and requested two more truck companies for ladder pipe operations. At 0425 all units were to continue operating exterior only.

Side Charlie reported zero visibility in the rear due to the heavy smoke conditions as companies were trying to hold their ground with several hand lines as well as ladder pipes at each end of the block. By 0430 fire was showing in every building. Heavy smoke was pushing out of the last two units at 2203 and 2201.

Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III

Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III

Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III

Photo Courtesy Rusty Brown

March/April 2025 – 23

Baltimore City FD News

Photo Courtesy Rusty Brown

Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III

Photo Courtesy Rusty Brown Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III

Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III

Photo Courtesy Rusty Brown

Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III

Photo Courtesy Howard Meile, III

24 – March/April 2025

Baltimore City FD News

Building Fire in Downtown Baltimore On March 4, 2025, just after 0400 hrs, BCFD were dispatched to the corner of Pratt Street and South Carolina Street for a vacant school on fire.

Units arrived with fire showing from a classroom on the 3rd floor of a large school building in pretty good shape after the 360 check. Crews made an inside attack that kept the fire in one room but a good amount of smoke though out the 3rd floor.

Photos Courtesy Rusty Brown

3 Alarm Building Fire in East Baltimore On February 11, 2025, just after 0400 hrs, BCFD were dispatched to the 4300 block of Shannon Drive, for a warehouse fire.

Units arrived to find a 100x80 warehouse with heavy smoke and fire showing. Crews stretched attacklines and began an aggressive attack on the fire.

No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Photos Courtesy Rusty Brown

March/April 2025 – 25

26 – March/April 2025

Joseph W. Dixon Fire Chief

House Fire in Northpoint On March 1, 2024, around 0100 hrs, BCoFD was dispatched to the 2700 bock of 6th Street, in the Northpoint/ Edgemere area.

Units arrived with heavy smoke showing and fire venting out through the roof from this occupied single family dwelling. Firefighter had to battle with high winds that were gusting over 30 mph.

Crews made a great push at first but as conditions worsened they forced to extinguish the fire from the outside. Crews stretched a couple of 2-1/2” handlines and were able to extinguish the fire.

There were no civilian or firefighter injuries reported.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Photos Courtesy Rusty Brown

2 Alarm Apartment Building Fire in Windsor Mill On March 11, 2025, BCoFD was dispatched to the 7400 block of Brixworth Court for a reported apartment fire.

Units arrived to find fire through the roof of the 3 story building. Crews stretched attacklines and quickly extinguished the fire.

No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Photo Courtesy BCoFD

March/April 2025 – 27

Baltimore Co. News

RESCUE 17

Texas

Baltimore Co. Fire Department Station 17

2025 Pierce Enforcer Non-Walk-In Rescue Cummins X15 – 605 hp Diesel 12 kW Onan Diesel Generator Sold By Atlantic Emergency Solutions, Inc. Photo Courtesy Pierce Manufacturing

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March/April 2025 – 29

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Eastern Shore News

2 Alarm House Explosion in Cambridge

On March 13, 2025, just before 2330 hrs, Rescue Fire Company and surrounding stations were dispatched the 400 block of Wood Duck Drive in Cambridge.

Units arrived to find middle of the row townhome engulfed in flames.

The homeowners were not home when the explosion happened and fire broke out. Neighbors were also able to get out of their homes unharmed.

Investigators say smoke alarms and a residential sprinkler system were both activated when the flames broke out. However, due to the home being destroyed, and heavy damage being sustained to the two adjoining homes, damages have been estimated at $750,000.

MSFMO has the cause of the explosion under investigation.

Photos Courtesy Rescue Fire Company

Serious MVC in Easton Story & Photo Courtesy Bruce Secrist (On & Off the Fire Scene)

On January 24, 2025, at approximately 1255 hrs, Talbot Center dispatched Station 60 (Easton), Station 50 (Cordova), and Paramedic 90 for an MVC in the area of 10466 Cordova Road.

Units arrived to find a single vehicle off the roadway with the driver self-extricated. After EMS finished their patient assessment, Aviation was requested. The lone occupant of the vehicle was transported to Easton Airport to rendezvous with Trooper 6, which then transported them to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore, MD. The cause of the accident was investigated by the Maryland State Police.

March/April 2025 – 33

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Southern

Maryland News Calvert – Charles – St. Mary’s House Fire in Huntingtown

On February 22, 2025, at 1958 hrs, Huntingtown and surrounding stations were alerted to the 4200 block of Weeping Willow Lane for a reported chimney fire.

Chief 6B (Thrasher) arrived to find fire showing from the roof and assumed command. Crews advanced an attackline up to the second floor and began extinguishment.

Additional crews assisted with extinguishment on the second floor.

No injuries were reported and the cause is under investigation.

Photos Courtesy Huntingtown VFD

March/April 2025 – 35

Southern Maryland News

House Fire in Nanjemoy On February 21, 2025, at 2055 hrs, Nanjemoy and surrounding stations were dispatched to the 8200 block of Gilroy Road in Nanjemoy, for a reported house on fire.

Units arrived to find fire showing throughout the 1-story residence and requested a helicopter and medic unit for an injured homeowner.

Flight medics were advised the 74-year-old female was conscious alert and breathing, with NO burn injuries, but severe smoke inhalation.

Firefighters extinguished the fire quickly.

The MSFMO has the cause of the fire under investigation.

Photos Courtesy Charles Co. VF and EMS

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36 – March/April 2025

Southern Maryland News

MVA in Avenue On February 3, 2025, at 1813 hrs, Seventh District and surrounding stations were dispatched to the area of the 23000 block of Colton Point Road in Avenue, for a serious motor vehicle collision with one possibly trapped.

Units arrived to find three vehicles involved with no entrapment.

Three patients were evaluated. EMS requested a helicopter to land nearby for one patient.

Maryland State Police Helicopter Trooper 2 landed nearby and transported one patient to an area trauma center.

One patient was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.

The third patient was evaluated, unknown if transported or signed care refusal forms.

Photo by Solomon’s VF and RS

Shed Fire in Lusby On February 21, 2025, at 0918 hrs, Solomons and surrounding stations were dispatched to the 11400 block of Long Bow Court in Lusby, for a reported shed on fire.

Units arrived to find a 10×20 shed fully engulfed in flames. Crews extinguished the fire quickly and operated for over an hour.

No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation by MSFMO. Photo by Solomon’s VF and RS

MVA in St. Leonard On February 21, 2025, at 1835 hrs, firefighters and emergency medical services from St. Leonard were dispatched to a medical call in Saint Leonard.

While Saint Leonard Ambulance 79 responded with lights and sirens activated, members reported they were involved in a motor vehicle collision with injuries at Route 4 and Ball Road.

The operator of the ambulance and one EMT on board was transported to an area hospital with unknown injuries. The operator and single occupant of the white sedan was transported by ambulance to an area trauma center.

Deputies from the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the collision.

Photo by St. Leonard VF&R

Fatal MVA in Lexington Park On February 9, 2025, at 1433 hrs, Bay District and surrounding stations were dispatched to the 21400 block of Great Mills Road in Lexington Park, for a motor vehicle collision reported serious with ejection, entrapment, and CPR in progress.

Units arrived to find a two vehicle collision with no entrapment and one patient confirmed to be ejected and not breathing with CPR in progress.

Emergency medical personnel and firefighters performed CPR and life-saving measures for 30 minutes before pronouncing one victim deceased on the scene.

One operator of the SUV was evaluated for minor/ non-life-threatening injuries by EMS. Photo by Bay District VFD

March/April 2025 – 37

38 – March/April 2025

Lancaster County News

Submitted by Thomas Amico

Plane Crash in Manheim Township On March 9, 2025, just before 1530 hrs, LCWC dispatched Manheim Township to the area of Airport Road near the Lancaster Airport for a reported aircraft crash.

Fire, EMS, and police units arrived and found a small single engine plane down in a parking lot within the Brethren Village retirement complex. Multiple vehicles and the plane were on fire.

Five people were transported to the hospital. Police, the FAA, and NTSB are investigating.

Photos Courtesy Manheim Township

March/April 2025 – 39

40 – March/April 2025

Lancaster Co. News

Dwelling Fire in Warwick Twp.

On February 14, 2025, just before 0500 hrs, LCWC dispatched Rothsville and surrounding stations to the 600 block of Owl Hill Road in Warwick Township for a reported dwelling fire. Dispatch reported they received multiple calls for a house and vehicle fire.

Units arrived and quickly put a handline in service to darken down the exterior fire. Crews also took a handline inside to knock down the fire that had extended into the structure on the 1st and 2nd floors.

There were no civilian or firefighter injuries reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Photos Courtesy Rothsville Fire/Ambulance Company

March/April 2025 – 41

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John Tull, Chief Lieutenant Thomas Moore, Sr. – Fire Fighter/EMT PIO www.salisburyfd.com

Vehicle Fire on North Division Street

Story and Photo Courtesy ​Sgt. Edward C. Evans, NRP, Salisbury FD On March 3, 2025, shortly after 2300 hrs, Salisbury was dispatched for vehicle fire in the area of North Division Street and Brooklyn Avenue.

Truck 2 arrived to find a pick up truck well-involved in the intersection. Truck 2 would place a line in service and quickly extinguish the fire.

There were no injuries reported. City Fire Marshal and Salisbury Police Department are investigating. 20B had command of the incident.

2 Alarm House Fire on Cloverdale Drive Story and Photos Courtesy ​Sgt. Edward C. Evans, NRP, Salisbury FD On February 15, 2025 , just after 1900 hrs, Salisbury along with Wicomico County units were dispatched to the 100 block of Cloverdale Drive for a house fire.

Truck 2 arrived to find heavy smoke showing a two-story single-family home. A/C 1 arrived and upgrade this to a working fire dispatch.

Crews encountered fire and high heat conditions. Crews found a basement fire that extended to the first and second floors. Engine 1 placed the initial attackline in service with Engine 16 deploying a second line.

Truck 2 completed primary and secondary searches. Command requested a second alarm to aid the suppression efforts. Crews operated on scene for three hours.

Two pets were rescued from the fire. There were no civilian injuries reported. One firefighter suffered minor injuries. City and State Fire Marshals’ are investigating the cause. AC-1 had command of the incident.

March/April 2025 – 43

Salisbury FD News

Vehicle Fire on East College Avenue Story and Photo Courtesy ​Sgt. Edward C. Evans, NRP, Salisbury FD On February 18, 2025, just after 1900 hrs, Salisbury was dispatched for a vehicle fire in the 100 block of East College Avenue.

Wicomico Central advised that Salisbury Police Department was on scene, advising of exposures to other vehicles. AC-1 arrived and confirmed an active fire in the passenger compartment. Engine 1 arrived and quickly extinguish the fire.

There were no injuries reported. City Fire Marshal and SPD are investigating. AC-1 would have command of the incident.

MVC with Rescue Story and Photo Courtesy ​Sgt. Edward C. Evans, NRP, Salisbury FD

On March 3, 2025, shortly before 1800 hrs, Salisbury was alerted for a MVC with Rescue in the area of Old Ocean City Road and Jerome Dr. Engine 1 arrived and confirm a single vehicle had gone off the roadway, striking a utility pole. Extrication was needed to remove the driver from the vehicle.

Crews from Engine 1 and Rescue 1 were able to quickly remove the driver’s side door to complete the extrication. The driver was transported to a local trauma center with minor injuries. Maryland State Police is investigating the accident. 21B had command of the incident.

Northeast

44 – March/April 2025

Maryland News Cecil – Harford

Fatal Dwelling Fire in Aberdeen On February 21, 2025, around 0812 hrs, Aberdeen and surrounding stations were dispatched to a house fire in the 100 block of Darlington Avenue in Aberdeen.

Units arrived to find a home engulfed in flames. Crews attempted to enter but were unable due to the raging fire. After the fire was extinguished crews performed a search and found one deceased victim inside and later found a second victim.

The 77-year-old man was transported to a hospital with burns, and a police officer was transported for smoke inhalation.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Photos Courtesy Aberdeen FD

March/April 2025 – 45

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46 – March/April 2025

Annapolis Fire Department Douglas Remaley Fire Chief

Fatal House Fire in Annapolis On February 21, 2025, around 2150 hrs, Annapolis responded to the 900 block of Riversedge Circle to find a middle of the row town house on fire.

Units arrived to find a large volume of fire in the structure. Crews stretched attacklines and began an aggressive battle against the fire.

Crews performed searches as soon as they could enter the home and found two victims - one deceased on scene and the other taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries. The second victim succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.

Investigators are looking into the cause of the fire in what they are calling at this time an accidental fire.

No other injuries were reported. Renters on one side of the home were not at the residence at the time, but were back collecting their belongings on Friday.

Photos Courtesy Annapolis FD

Joe Pilat President, Local 1926

March/April 2025 – 47

48 – March/April 2025

Annapolis FD News

Commercial Vehicle Fire in West Annapolis Story and Photos Courtesy Mike Hugg Media On February 09, 2025, at approximately 2218 hrs, AACoFD, City of Annapolis, Anne Arundel County PD and Maryland State Police responded to Westbound Route 50 in the area of Jennifer Road for the report of a commercial vehicle fire.

Anne Arundel County Fire Alarm received multiple calls reporting a tractor trailer with fire from the brake area of the trailer and reported that the driver had detached the tractor from the trailer.

Firefighters arrived with fire showing from the brake area extending up the trailer and began quickly knocking the fire.

The fire was extinguished and contained to the trailer before units began cleaning up and returning to service.

March/April 2025 – 49

Prince George’s County News

Fatal House Fire in Oxon Hill On February 2, 2025, around 1843 hrs, PGFD units were alerted for a house fire in the 5500 block of Galloway Drive, in Oxon Hill.

PGFD units arrived to find a 2-story, single family home with well advanced fire conditions.

Crews began searches that proved positive. Two adult victims were discovered deceased.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Photo Courtesy PGFD

Apartment Building Fire in District Heights On February 15, 2025, around 2130 hrs, PGFD units were dispatched to the 6800 block of Walker Mill Road, in District Heights, for a report apartment building fire.

PGFD arrived to find fire from the top floor and through the roof. Crews quickly contained and extinguished the fire.

There were no reported injuries. Fire Investigators have the cause of the fire under investigation.

Photo Courtesy PGFD

House Fire in Lanham On February 9, 2025, around 1441 hrs, PGFD units were dispatched to the 6900 block of Nashville Road, in Lanham, for a reported house fire.

Units arrived to find a single story home with fire through the roof. Crews stretched attacklines and were able to quickly extinguish the fire.

There were no civilian or firefighter injuries reported.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Photo Courtesy Paul Hawkins

Western

50 – March/April 2025

Maryland News

Washington – Allegany – Garrett

2 Alarm Fatal House Fire in LaVale On February 21, 2025, at around 1012 hrs, LaVale and surrounding stations were dispatched for a reported house fire in 20 block of Asbury Avenue in LaVale.

Units arrived to find a single family home with heavy fire and smoke.

Crews stretched attacklines and were able to extinguish the fire quickly.

Firefighters performed a search of the home and found the remains of two people inside.

The MSFMO determined that the fire started in the living room of the home but the cause is still being investigated.

Photos Courtesy LaVale VFD

Rawlings

Volunteer Fire Dept.

Station 47 Allegany Co. 2025 Ford F550 1250 gallon Pump – 300 gallon Tank Photo Courtesy Rawlings VFD

MINI PUMPER 47

March/April 2025 – 51

Western MD News

Commercial Building Fire in Cumberland

On February 15, 2025, City of Cumberland and surrounding stations were dispatched for a working structure fire in a combined business and apartments building.

Units arrived to find fire out the windows of the second floor apartment. Crews began an aggressive attack on the fire and were able to quickly knock it down. Crews made a primary search which proved negative.

No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Photos Courtesy City of Cumberland FD

Dwelling Fire in Boonsboro

On February 6, 2025, Washington Co Dispatched Box Alarm 12-5 for a house fire in the 18000 block of Manor Church Road.

Units arrived and found smoke in the house with fire in the walls on the first and second floor. Crews assisted inside opening up and checking for extension while the truck chauffeur ladder the building and set up for ventilation.

Engine 6-1 had the RIT. No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Photo Courtesy Frostburg FD

MVC with Entrapment in Flintstone On February 20, 2025, Flintstone was dispatched to Interstate 68 at mile markers 56 eastbound, in Flintstone, for a MVC with entrapment.

Units arrived to find a mini van into the guard rail in the middle of the interstate. Crews extricated a victim quickly.

Photo Courtesy Flintstone VFC

52 – March/April 2025

Virginia Apparatus

TRUCK 13 2003 Pierce Dash 105’ Ladder Truck 1500 gpm Pump – 500 gallon Tank

Clear Brook

The Pierce ladder truck was purchased from the Carroll Manor Fire Company in Frederick County, MD where it ran as Quint 14. Once received by Clear Brook, J.R’s Auto Body Center in Winchester, VA did work on the truck to help prepare it for service in Frederick County, VA.

Fire & Rescue Station 13 Frederick Co., VA

Photo Courtesy Mike Sanders

ENGINE 426

Fairfax County Fire & Rescue Station 26 Fairfax Co., VA

2023 Pierce Impel Pumper Cummins L9 – 450 hp Diesel 1500 gpm Pump – 650 gallon Tank Sold By Atlantic Emergency Solutions Photo Courtesy Pierce Manufacturing

March/April 2025 – 53

Virginia Apparatus

TRUCK 106

Arlington County

2018 Pierce Enforcer Ascendant 107’ Heavy-Duty Aerial Ladder Cummins X12 – 500 hp Diesel 1250 gpmPump – 750 gallon Tank 6 kW Harrison Hydraulic Generator

Fire Department Station 6 Arlington County, VA

Sold By Atlantic Emergency Solutions Photo Courtesy Pierce Manufacturing

TOWER 104

Arlington County

Fire Department Station 4 Arlington County, VA

2024 Pierce Enforcer Ascendant 100’ Heavy-Duty Aerial Tower Cummins X15 – 605 hp Diesel 6 kW Harrison Hydraulic Generator Sold By Atlantic Emergency Solutions Photo Courtesy Pierce Manufacturing

54 – March/April 2025

Corey Smedley, Fire Chief Pete Peringer, Public Information Officer

House Fire in Laytonsville

On January 28, 2025, MCFRS units were dispatched to a large house in the 5400 block of Griffith Road, near Damascus Road, in Laytonsville, a non-hydrant area.

Units arrived to find heavy fire conditions on a two-story single family home. Crews utilized a water supply fill site at Rupert’s Nursery on Route 108. The bulk of the fire was knocked down quickly.

No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire in under investigation.

Photos Courtesy MCFRS

March/April 2025 – 55

56 – March/April 2025

Montgomery County News

Two Alarms House Fire in Potomac

On March 3, 2025, around 1530 hrs, MCFRS units were dispatched to the 8800 block of Mary Mead Court, in Potomac, for a reported house fire.

Firefighters were initially called for a roof on fire and arrived to see the house fully engulfed. A family of seven who lived inside the home were able to get out, while firefighters reportedly needed to rescue two baby chicks.

Initial reports from MCFRS spokesperson Pete Piringer indicated that flames had spread rapidly, consuming large portions of the mansion. A second alarm was called as crews worked to contain the blaze.

After an investigation, authorities determined the cause of the fire was accidental. However, officials say the investigation remains ongoing.

Photos Courtesy MCFRS

March/April 2025 – 57

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