MCFRS

The Five Fires That Caused The Highest Monetary Losses in 2024 (Over $40 Million Total)

By MCS Staff

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (MCFRS) Public Information Officer Pete Piringer shared the five fires that caused the most in monetary losses in 2024:

5. 8807 Primula La. Laytonsville. On April 30th, 2024 MCFRS approximately 55 firefighters extinguished a heavy fire on 8800 block of Primula Dr in the Laytonsville/Damascus area. According to Assistant Chief David Pazos, the fire was in both the basement and attic of the home. There were no injuries, but two adults and two children were displaced. Total Damage ~$1.6 M.

4. 21711 Peachtree Rd, Barnsville. On November 11th, 2024 approximately 75 firefighters responded in a non-hydrant area on the 21000 block of Peachtree Rd. in Dickerson at around 2:30am. The house was “totally destroyed by the fire.” Three adults and three children were able to get out without injury and thousands of gallons of water were shuttled in overnight to fight the fire. Total Damage >$5 M.

3. 16235 New Hampshire Ave., Cloverly. On August 9th. 2024 approximately 75 firefighters were on the scene of a fire at Seventh Day Adventist Church, initially dispatched for the automatic fire alarm that went off at the church. Upon arriving on the scene, firefighters encountered smoke and high heat conditions. The fire vented through the roof, causing major damage, but no injuries were reported. The fire originated in the sanctuary area and appeared to be accidental due to an unknown malfunction/failure of an electrical item (electronic equipment, electrical cords, power strips). Total Damage $6.2 M.

2. 12000 block of Clarksburg Square Rd, Clarksburg. Approximately 75 firefighters responded to a fire at a residential apartment building. Several occupants were assisted from the building. Twenty-four apartment units were affected and 43 residents were displaced. Two residents and one firefighter were transported to the hospital with non-critical injuries.
Total Damage $10.5 M.

1. Former home of Joann Leleck Elementary School at 710 Beacon Rd. in Silver Spring. Approximately 75 firefighters responded to a fire at a school building that was under construction/prep for demolition. Total Damage $18.7M