July 22nd, 2024 by WCBC Radio
A team of investigators from the Office of the State Fire Marshal and Allegany Combined County Criminal (C3I) is conducting an investigation involving a fatal dwelling fire at 210 Welsh Hill Road in Frostburg that claimed one person.
At around 3:45 a.m., Frostburg Fire Department and nearby fire companies responded to the three-alarm fire. It took 60 firefighters fifteen minutes to control the fire. Once the fire was extinguished, firefighters located a deceased occupant within the single-family dwelling. The victim will be transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore to determine the exact cause of death and will be positively identified.
Deputy State Fire Marshals have preliminarily concluded the fire originated in the basement garage, and the cause remains under investigation. Investigators have not determined if smoke alarms were present. Two other occupants were able to get out of the home safely. Investigators are continuing to confirm reports that the victim may have gone back inside the burning home after getting out. "Our hearts are with the Frostburg community after a tough morning. This is another tragic reminder to check your smoke alarms. Have an escape plan, and once you and your loved ones get out, stay out." stated Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray
A joint investigation between the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the local jurisdiction is a standard operating procedure for a fatal fire. Frostburg City Police Department is also assisting.
