WASHINGTON COUNTY, MD (November 18, 2025) – The Washington County Division of Emergency Services (DES) reports a devastating residential fire that occurred early this morning on National Pike, east of Clear Spring, resulting in three confirmed fatalities.

At approximately 4:31 a.m., multiple fire companies were dispatched to a residence located between Shady Bower and St. Paul Road, where crews arrived to find heavy fire conditions involving the first floor and basement of the home.

Despite the rapid and coordinated response of nearly sixty (60) firefighters and support personnel, two (2) adult females and one (1) adult male tragically succumbed to the incident. Two (2) family dogs were safely rescued from the home and transferred to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) for care.

The Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office is currently investigating the cause of the fire.

The multi-agency response was coordinated by the Division of Emergency Services and included units from Clear Spring Fire, Williamsport Fire & EMS, Maugansville Fire, Funkstown Fire, Community Volunteer Fire, Longmeadow Fire, Hancock Fire, Hagerstown Fire, Halfway Fire, Greencastle Fire, Mercersburg Fire, Community Rescue Service, Clear Spring Ambulance, Maryland State Fire Marshal Office and Emergency Support Services. Fire crews brought the blaze under control by 4:56 a.m.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones impacted by this tragic incident. The responding crews demonstrated exceptional dedication, professionalism, and cooperation under extremely difficult conditions, and we are grateful for their service to our community,” said R. David Hays, Director of the Washington County Division of Emergency Services.

For more information, please contact the Washington County Public Relations & Marketing Department at pr@washco-md.net.