Sykesville Man Faces Arson Charges After Deliberately Destroying Family Home

According to a press release from the Maryland Office of the State Fire Marshal, a Sykesville man has been charged with multiple offenses after he intentionally set fire to his Sherry Drive residence, resulting in the complete destruction of the home and requiring a significant emergency response. The incident occurred on the morning of November 26, 2025.

The initial dispatch to the 500 block of Sherry Drive involved Carroll County Sheriff’s deputies and the Maryland State Police responding to a report of a domestic disturbance. While en route, law enforcement officers received information that the homeowner was allegedly preparing to set the house on fire, prompting the dispatch of fire services. Upon arrival, deputies observed a large plume of black smoke emanating from the property. The residence was fully engulfed in flames when deputies reached the scene. The homeowner, identified as Michael Weisgerber, 59, was present outside the burning structure and admitted to intentionally starting the fire. He was taken into custody at the scene and subsequently transported to a local hospital to receive treatment for minor injuries. Fire crews from Carroll County Fire and EMS, Gamber & Community Fire Company, and several other departments worked collaboratively to extinguish the blaze.

During the subsequent investigation, Weisgerber informed Deputy State Fire Marshals that he had been living in an RV parked in the driveway due to an estrangement from his wife. He stated that he entered the house while his wife was outdoors, secured the door, confirmed his wife was not inside, and then poured gasoline throughout the interior before igniting it. Investigators have confirmed that the resulting gasoline vapors led to an explosion that dislodged a rear door from its frame. Weisgerber has been charged with first-degree arson, first- and second-degree malicious burning, reckless endangerment, and arson threat. He is currently being held at the Carroll County Detention Center awaiting a bond hearing.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal is reminding the public that individuals experiencing personal crises or domestic issues can access immediate assistance by contacting local support services or the Maryland Crisis Hotline by dialing 988.

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

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