Lithium Battery Malfunction Leads to Garage Fire in Hancock

Hancock, MD – An accidental fire, preliminarily attributed to a malfunctioning lithium battery, caused an estimated $40,000 in damages to a garage and its contents in Hancock, Maryland. The incident occurred on November 22, 2025, at approximately 4:28 PM at a property located at 25 Sable Run Road.

According to information from the Office of the State Fire Marshal, the owner of the property, James Darnell, was in the process of charging a lithium battery. He had briefly stepped away from the area when smoke detectors inside the residence were activated. Upon investigating, Mr. Darnell discovered that the charging battery had caught fire and had begun to ignite nearby combustible materials. Fortunately, the owner was able to extinguish the blaze himself before the arrival of emergency personnel.

The Hancock Volunteer Fire Department responded to the scene with six firefighters, marking it as a one-alarm incident. The fire was controlled and extinguished by the owner. No injuries or deaths were reported as a result of the fire, and no occupants were displaced from the residence. The estimated cost of the damage includes $10,000 for the structure and $30,000 for the contents of the garage. Smoke detectors were present in the residence, contributing to the early detection of the fire. There were no fire alarm or sprinkler systems present at the property. No arrests were made in connection with the incident.

This incident serves as a reminder of the potential hazards associated with lithium batteries, especially during charging. Residents are encouraged to follow safe practices when charging electronic devices, including ensuring proper ventilation, avoiding overcharging, and inspecting batteries for any signs of damage.

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

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