Three Injured and $1.5 Million in Damages After Hagerstown Shop Fire

A fire at a commercial property in Hagerstown, Maryland, left three people injured and caused $1.5 million in damages after gasoline vapors ignited during mechanical work. According to the Maryland Office of the State Fire Marshal, the blaze broke out on July 24 at 13535 Label Lane in a two-story building housing Main Truck Towing & Repair Inc.

Emergency crews from the Maugansville Goodwill Volunteer Fire Company responded to the scene with support from a total of 97 firefighters from multiple companies across several states. The fire, which was reported by building occupants, took approximately one hour to bring under control. Authorities report that the structure itself sustained $1 million in damage, while contents lost amounted to another $500,000.

The fire originated in the rear vehicle bay when a mechanic attempted to siphon gasoline from a diesel engine. Gasoline vapors ignited during the process, causing burns to the mechanic’s legs. The injured worker was airlifted to Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, while two others received medical attention, including one transported to Meritus Medical Center.

According to the Maryland Fire Marshal, no working smoke or fire alarms were present in the building, nor were any sprinkler systems installed. Despite the absence of life-saving alert systems, no fatalities occurred. Authorities have ruled the fire accidental, caused by the ignition of flammable liquids and vapors during the siphoning procedure. No arrests have been made in connection with the incident.

Article by multiple contributors, based upon information from the Maryland Office of the State Fire Marshal

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