Hagerstown Home Suffers Significant Damage in Accidental Garage Fire

A structure fire on Garis Shop Road in Hagerstown, Maryland, resulted in substantial property damage and displaced one resident, according to a notice from the Maryland State Fire Marshal. The incident occurred late on January 20, 2026, around 11:22 PM.

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The fire, which was determined to be accidental, originated in the interior of the garage of the single-story single-family residence located at 10064 Garis Shop Road. Preliminary investigation indicates that a burn barrel used within the garage ignited adjacent combustible materials, leading to the blaze. The Funkstown Volunteer Fire Company was the primary responding agency, with 64 firefighters working for approximately one hour to bring the fire under control. No injuries or deaths were reported.

The estimated financial loss from the fire is significant, with the structure sustaining an estimated $300,000 in damages and the contents an additional $100,000. A critical factor noted in the investigation was that the smoke alarm within the residence was not operational. The fire resulted in one individual being displaced from their home.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal, an agency within the Department of State Police, is committed to enhancing public safety through education, inspection, investigation, and fire protection engineering. Residents seeking further information on fire safety can contact 1-800-525-3124 or visit the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s website.

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

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