Crisfield, MD – Deputy State Fire Marshals have concluded their on-scene investigation into a destructive blaze that ravaged a vacant home at 308 Locust Street, inflicting nearly $90,000 in damages.
On Monday, at 5:10 am, the Crisfield Fire Department and neighboring fire departments swiftly responded to a one-alarm fire that had engulfed the two-story, wood-framed single-family dwelling. Flames were observed venting to the exterior of the structure. It took a team of 30 firefighters an hour of relentless effort to successfully bring the blaze under control. Due to the property’s vacancy, no smoke alarms or fire sprinkler systems were installed inside the home.
The local fire department requested the assistance of the Office of the State Fire Marshal to determine the origin and cause of the fire. A specialized team of investigators meticulously examined the scene and determined that the fire had originated on the first-floor interior of the house.
The owner of the property was identified as Floyd Pugh.
Arson has been determined as the cause of the fire.
This incident marks the third occurrence of a vacant house fire in Crisfield since October 2022. The previous fires took place at 2 West Main Street on October 9, 2022, and 201 North Third Street on October 12, 2022. In light of these recurring incidents, Deputy State Fire Marshals are urging the public to come forward with any information that could assist in identifying those responsible for setting these fires. Individuals can provide information to local law enforcement, including the Crisfield Police Department, Somerset County (MD) Sheriff’s Office, Maryland State Police Princess Anne Barrack, or directly contact the Office of the State Fire Marshal at 410-713-3780.