| At approximately 17:48 hours on April 16, 2026, firefighters and emergency medical personnel were dispatched to the 40000 block of Medleys Lane for a reported residential structure fire. Multiple callers reported smoke coming from the roofline of a single-story home, prompting a rapid and robust response.
Fire and EMS units from Hollywood, Mechanicsville, Leonardtown, Seventh District, Hughesville, along with the Fire Duty Chief, responded to the incident. Bay District Volunteer Fire Department (Station 9) was dispatched on the initial alarm, with Station 3 added as part of the Working Incident Task Force. Bay District crews operated with Engine Tanker 94, Engine Tanker 34, and Chief 3B.
Engine 71 arrived on scene to find a one-story, single-family dwelling with fire showing from the roof and immediately initiated an aggressive interior attack. Command was established, and crews quickly deployed hose lines while coordinating ventilation and search operations. Due to limited access, firefighters carried equipment to the structure, adding to the operational challenges.
Primary and secondary searches confirmed that all occupants had safely exited the home prior to the arrival of fire crews. One adult occupant was evaluated on scene for minor injuries. The American Red Cross was requested to assist displaced residents with temporary housing and support services.
Engine Tanker 94 was initially assigned as the Rapid Intervention Team (RIT), ensuring firefighter safety during interior operations. As the incident progressed and conditions improved, Engine Tanker 94 was reassigned to assist with overhaul operations. Engine Tanker 34 also supported overhaul efforts, working to expose and extinguish hidden fire in the attic, crawl space, and other concealed areas.
At the height of the incident, approximately 77 fire and EMS personnel operated on scene. The bulk of the fire was knocked down within approximately 25 minutes. Crews remained on scene for an extended period conducting overhaul operations and checking for remaining hot spots to ensure the fire was fully extinguished.
No firefighter injuries were reported, and all personnel were accounted for throughout the incident. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Fire Marshal’s Office. Command was terminated at approximately 19:02 hours.
This incident underscores the importance of early notification and working smoke alarms. Residents are reminded to test smoke alarms monthly and practice a home fire escape plan to ensure everyone can exit quickly and safely in the event of an emergency.
** Photos Courtesy of MVFD Facebook ** |
