Germantown Townhouse Fire Injures Eight Firefighters

At approximately 1 a.m. on Monday, March 14 MCFRS Units responded to the 19300 block of Churubusco Lane in the Germantown area of Montgomery County. First arriving units reported heavy fire and smoke showing from a middle of the row townhouse.

Firefighters engaged in firefighting operations and initial indications were all occupants of the home were safely out. A short time later, there was a concern that one occupant was missing and perhaps still in the home. Search and rescue operations were quickly initiated.

During the search and rescue operations, a partial collapse of the front of the structure occurred trapping eight firefighters and triggering a “Mayday” alert for all on scene. The “Mayday” was short lived as the firefighters either self-rescued or were quickly assisted to safety.

All eight firefighters were transported to area hospitals with a variety of non-life threatening injuries. Eventually, all eight firefighters were treated and released.

It was later learned that all occupants had successfully evacuated and were safe.

The fire reached Three Alarms and a total of approximately 120 firefighters were on the scene.

Due to the extensive damage to the home, Fire Investigators are still working to determine the cause of the fire. Resources from the Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms Bureau, Montgomery County Department of Transportation, Montgomery County Police, Anne Arundel County Fire and Rescue (K9) and Annapolis City Fire Investigations Office.

Damage totals are not available at this time but the townhouse will be a total loss. There was also damage to adjoining homes which will result in a total of 20 people being displaced. Red Cross is assisting those displaced.