HAGERSTOWN, MD – A pre-dawn fire tore through a downtown high-rise apartment building early Sunday, sending two residents to the hospital and forcing them from their home.
Flames erupted inside a unit at 11 West Baltimore Street around 3 a.m., authorities said.
Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke pouring from the upper floors of the structure.
Key Points
- Two residents were injured in an early morning apartment fire in Hagerstown.
- The blaze caused an estimated $200,000 in total damages.
- The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Fire quickly contained by massive response
More than 50 firefighters from the Hagerstown Fire Department and surrounding companies responded to the one-alarm fire, which was brought under control within five minutes of arrival. Crews credited the building’s smoke and fire alarm systems—both of which activated—for alerting residents and preventing greater loss of life.
Residents displaced, investigation underway
Officials said two occupants, including property owner Stephen Jones, were displaced as a result of the blaze. Both were treated for injuries sustained during the incident. Damage was estimated at $100,000 to the structure and another $100,000 to its contents.
Fire investigators identified the kitchen and living room area as the origin point but have not yet determined a cause. The investigation remains active.
Alarms credited for saving lives
The activated alarms allowed for quick evacuation and early notification to responders, preventing what officials said could have been a far more severe outcome. Crews remained on scene for several hours conducting overhaul and assessing damage throughout the building.
No arrests were made, and officials confirmed the fire was not considered suspicious at this time.
