DELMAR, MD — A structure fire broke out late Tuesday morning at Kings Mulch and Pallets in Wicomico County, tearing through a large pole building and causing an estimated $380,000 in damages, officials said.
The blaze erupted at approximately 11:39 a.m. at 29729 Foskey Lane, consuming a 50-by-120-foot metal and wood-framed warehouse used for mulch and pallet operations.
No injuries were reported.
Key Points
- Fire destroyed warehouse at Kings Mulch and Pallets in Delmar
- Total estimated loss: $380,000 in structure and contents
- Sawing operations prior to fire are under investigation as possible cause
Employees discovered blaze, no alarms installed in facility
The fire was first noticed by employees inside the facility. The Delmar Fire Department responded with 25 firefighters and brought the fire under control within 30 minutes. Officials confirmed there were no smoke detectors, fire alarms, or sprinkler systems installed in the building at the time of the incident.
The area of origin has been identified as the interior of the structure. Investigators are continuing to examine the scene to determine the exact cause of the fire.
Sawing operations possibly linked to fire outbreak
According to officials, sawing operations on wooden pallets had been taking place inside the warehouse before the fire was discovered. Investigators say they have not ruled out this activity as a possible ignition source, but the cause remains under investigation.
The property is owned and operated by Kings Mulch and Pallets. No arrests or citations have been issued, and fire officials have not indicated any foul play.
Fire response contained large-scale warehouse blaze swiftly
Fire crews responded to a single alarm and managed to keep the flames from spreading beyond the structure. Despite the quick control time, the damage to both the building and its contents is substantial.
Authorities say further updates will be provided as investigators continue to assess the origin and cause of the fire.