Front view of a house heavily damaged by fire, with charred siding and exposed beams in the yard outside the remains of the structure.

Greensboro, MD — A Friday afternoon house fire on Bernard Avenue displaced two residents and caused an estimated $200,000 in damage, according to the Maryland Office of the State Fire Marshal. The blaze broke out around 3:15 p.m. at a one-story single-family home at 404 Bernard Ave. and was brought under control in about 20 minutes.

Firefighters from the Greensboro Volunteer Fire Company responded with 35 personnel on a single alarm assignment. Officials said the occupants discovered the fire themselves, allowing for a rapid emergency response that helped prevent injuries.

Fire started on back porch, cause under investigation

Investigators with the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office said the fire originated on the home’s back porch, though the exact cause remains under investigation. No arrests have been made.

The home sustained significant structural damage estimated at $150,000, with an additional $50,000 in contents lost. Despite the extent of the damage, authorities confirmed no injuries or fatalities.

A smoke alarm was present in the home, though officials did not specify whether it activated during the incident.

Key Points
• Fire displaced two residents from a home on Bernard Avenue in Greensboro
• Blaze caused an estimated $200,000 in total damage
• Origin traced to back porch; cause remains under investigation

Emergency response contained fire quickly

Crews were able to control the fire within 20 minutes, limiting further spread beyond the initial area of origin. The relatively fast containment likely reduced the risk of additional structural loss and nearby property damage.

The Greensboro Volunteer Fire Company served as the primary responding agency, handling suppression and initial scene management.

Assistance for displaced residents

The two displaced occupants are currently receiving assistance from family members and the American Red Cross, according to fire officials. No additional details about the residents have been released.

As of Monday, April 27, the investigation into the cause of the fire remains ongoing, and no further updates have been issued by the State Fire Marshal’s Office.

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