On January 29th at approximately 0520 hrs. the first alarm assignment was dispatched for a dwelling in the area of Broad Street and Third Street in Crumpton. This assignment consisted of Companies 7, 6, KM2, KM Tower 6 and QAC EMS. Within a minute Station 7 contacted the Dispatch Center requesting a Tanker Task Force and 2nd Alarm. Engine 55 and Tanker 5 were dispatched as part of the 2nd Alarm, responding with four personnel. Prior to arrival Command requested a 3rd Alarm bringing companies from Caroline County and Delaware. Upon arrival the engine crew advanced an attack line down an alley way between the fire building and the exposure on the Charlie Side. With conditions deteriorating, the crew backed out after approximately five minutes. At that time Officer 503 (Hurlock) was assigned to supervise personnel operating on the original fire building. With crews from Sudlersville, Goldsboro and Centreville assisting, the bulk of the fire was controlled with two 1 3/4" lines. Overhaul began on both structures along with the exposure on Side Delta. Numerous crews were rotated to complete the overhaul process. In all two dwellings were completely destroyed and a third suffered heat damage. Over 75 personnel operated for approximately 3 1/2 hours.

Companies on the scene: Crumpton, Sudlersville, Millington, Chestertown, Church Hill, Galena, Kennedyville, Centreville, Goldsboro, Marydel, Hartly, Clayton, Smyrna, Queenstown, QAC EMS, QAC FM Office and the State Fire Marshal.

This fire is suspected to be an arson fire. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

Special thanks to Grasonville for standing by for us with Engine 25 while we were out of the area.

All photos courtesy of Bruce Secrist - Fire in the Hole Photography