Three Structure Fires Under Investigation in Western Maryland

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Authorities are investigating three separate structure fires that occurred in Western Maryland over the past few days, causing significant property damage but resulting in no reported injuries. The incidents took place in Cumberland, Frostburg, and Smithsburg, each requiring a substantial firefighting response. Investigators are working to determine the exact causes of the fires, with preliminary findings suggesting electrical malfunctions in two cases.

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The first fire occurred on February 15 at 122 Bedford Street in Cumberland, where a commercial building with three apartments caught fire. Firefighters from the Cumberland Fire Department responded to the scene, with 35 personnel working to contain the blaze within 10 minutes. The fire, which originated in a second-floor bedroom, caused approximately $50,000 in damages. A neighbor discovered the fire after detecting an unusual odor and hearing a smoke alarm. The apartment’s occupants were not home at the time, but one cat perished, and another remains missing. The American Red Cross is assisting those displaced by the incident.

On February 17, a second fire was reported at 12300 Devault Street in Frostburg. The Shaft Volunteer Fire Department, along with additional responders, battled the blaze for 30 minutes before bringing it under control. The fire started in the basement due to an electrical malfunction at the panel box, causing an estimated $50,000 in damages. The homeowner, who discovered the fire, managed to evacuate safely with her dogs. The American Red Cross is also providing assistance.

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Later the same day, another fire broke out at 37 S. Main Street in Smithsburg. Firefighters from the Smithsburg Community Volunteer Fire Company responded, with 48 personnel working for 45 minutes to extinguish the flames. The fire originated in the attic, with investigators determining an electrical wiring malfunction as the likely cause. The damage is estimated at $50,000. The home’s residents are receiving aid from the American Red Cross.

Authorities continue to investigate the fires and urge anyone with information about the Cumberland incident to contact the State Fire Marshal’s Western Regional Office at (301) 766-3888.