FROSTBURG — A Sunday afternoon fire at 11205 Upper Georges Creek Road near Cherry Lane has been ruled as suspicious in nature by the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office.
No one was home at the time of the1:15 p.m. fire that was extinguished by Shaft and Frostburg volunteer firefighters who found fire and smoke visible upon arrival at the scene.
The fire marshal’s office said the blaze caused a loss estimated at $350,000 to the single-story structure and contents that was owned by James Webber.
A family dog escaped the fire without injury, according to Roger Bennett, acting director of the Allegany County Department of Emergency Services, who is also a veteran volunteer with the Shaft Volunteer Fire Department that directed the fire operation.
Midland, LaVale, Mount Savage and Eastern Garrett volunteer firefighters also assisted at the scene where DES ambulances stood by along with the Allegany County Sheriff’s Office. The fire was discovered by a passing motorist.
State fire investigators said the fire was started in several locations and are asking anyone with information to call 301-729-5544.
Units were on the scene for three hours following alert by the Allegany County 911 Joint Communications Center.