Stolen Vehicle Found Ablaze Along I-70 in Late-Night Incident

A late-night vehicle fire along Interstate 70 westbound has prompted an official investigation after authorities discovered the car involved had been reported stolen out of Hagerstown. The incident occurred just before midnight on May 3, when emergency crews were dispatched to the scene at the 6.5 mile marker to find a white 2015 Hyundai Sonata engulfed in flames and abandoned.

The fire, initially spotted by a passerby, originated in the engine compartment of the unoccupied vehicle. Four firefighters from the Hancock Volunteer Fire Company responded, managing to bring the blaze under control within six minutes. No injuries were reported in connection to the incident.

Preliminary damage estimates value the loss at approximately $8,000. There were no arrests made at the scene, and both smoke and fire alarm systems were not applicable to the incident. Authorities have not yet determined the specific cause of the fire, which remains under investigation.

The Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office is urging anyone with information regarding the vehicle or circumstances surrounding the fire to contact the Western Regional Office at 301-766-3888. The stolen vehicle, registered to Megan Shaff, was found abandoned without any occupants at the time of discovery.

Article by multiple RFHC contributors, based upon information from the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office

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