Vehicle Fire on Breakneck Road Under Investigation by State Fire Marshal

A vehicle and nearby area were consumed by fire on Breakneck Road in Flintstone, Maryland, on September 14, 2025, prompting an investigation by the Office of the State Fire Marshal. The blaze, which was reported at approximately 3:05 PM, affected a 1997 Freightliner, its mechanical components, and an acre of surrounding brush. The estimated loss associated with the incident is $5,000 for the contents of the vehicle.

The fire originated in the vicinity of the vehicle’s mechanical components and a brush pile. According to preliminary information, the resident had removed the engine from the Freightliner the previous day and placed it next to the vehicle’s cab and other mechanical parts. The resident discovered the fire on Sunday afternoon, observing black smoke before investigating and finding the blaze.

The Baltimore Pike Volunteer Fire Company responded to the incident, with eight firefighters working to bring the fire under control. It took approximately 45 minutes to achieve control of the flames. The Maryland Natural Resources Police and the Maryland Natural Resources Forest Service provided assistance in the ongoing investigation. The preliminary cause of the fire remains under investigation.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal is a division of the Department of State Police that focuses on fire prevention through education, inspections, and investigations. Residents seeking more information on fire safety can call 1-800-525-3124 or visit the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s website.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

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