Accidental Stove Malfunction Sparks Kitchen Fire in Hagerstown Duplex

HAGERSTOWN, MD – A kitchen fire at a two-story duplex on Mulberry Avenue in Hagerstown was determined to be accidental, according to an investigation by the Office of the State Fire Marshal. The incident, which occurred on the morning of July 16, 2026, at approximately 7:37 AM, resulted in minor property damage but no reported injuries or displacements.

Firefighters were dispatched to the residence at 821 Mulberry Avenue after the occupants discovered a fire originating in the kitchen. Upon arrival, the Hagerstown Fire Department, with the assistance of 28 firefighters across one alarm, was able to bring the blaze under control within 10 minutes. The fire was contained to the area around a freestanding stove.

The preliminary investigation indicates that the fire was caused by an electrical malfunction at the back of the freestanding stove. The occupants reported that they were not using the stove at the time the fire started. The estimated monetary loss from the incident is $500 for the structure and $1,000 for the contents. Notably, smoke alarms were not present in the residence at the time of the fire. Fire department personnel installed new smoke alarms before departing the scene, underscoring the importance of working smoke detection for early fire warning and occupant safety.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal serves as an agency of the Department of State Police, focusing on public safety through fire prevention, education, and investigation. Residents seeking more information on fire safety can contact the state fire marshal’s office or visit their website.

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

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