Essex, Maryland, January 17, 2026
A two-alarm fire in Essex, Maryland, has left an infant in critical condition and three others hospitalized. The blaze occurred in a townhouse on Foxcroft Lane, with firefighters battling heavy flames on multiple floors. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Additionally, a separate fire at a senior living facility in nearby Dundalk also resulted in several hospitalizations. Local authorities emphasize the importance of fire safety measures in the community.
Essex, Maryland
Infant in Critical Condition After Essex Fire
An infant is in critical condition, and three other individuals have been hospitalized following a two-alarm fire in Essex, Maryland, on Friday evening.
Fire Details
The fire erupted just before 7 p.m. in the 1000 block of Foxcroft Lane. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy flames on the second and third floors of a townhouse. The fire rapidly spread from one residence to another, prompting a swift response from emergency crews. An infant was rescued from the scene and transported to a hospital in critical condition. Three other individuals, who had self-evacuated, were treated for smoke inhalation and also taken to local hospitals. The fire has been brought under control, and two homes were affected by the blaze. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Additional Incident in Dundalk
On the same evening, a separate two-alarm fire occurred at a senior living facility in Dundalk, Maryland. The fire originated on the third floor of a high-rise building, leading to the evacuation of over 100 residents. Three individuals were hospitalized with minor injuries. The building, which houses approximately 300 people, sustained water damage due to the sprinkler system’s activation. The cause of this fire is also under investigation.
Recent Fire Incidents in the Area
These incidents are part of a series of recent fires in the Baltimore County area. In October 2024, an apartment fire in Essex displaced 18 residents and resulted in a firefighter injury. In August 2025, a house fire in Suitland, Maryland, led to the death of a 9-year-old child and injuries to two firefighters. A tragic house fire in Waldorf, Maryland, in the same month claimed the lives of six people, including four children.
Safety Measures and Community Response
Local authorities emphasize the importance of fire safety measures, including the installation of smoke detectors and the creation of evacuation plans. Community support services, such as the American Red Cross, are actively involved in assisting displaced residents and providing necessary resources during these emergencies.
Weather Conditions
On the night of the fire, Essex experienced temperatures ranging from a low of 1.4°C (34.5°F) to a high of 7.2°C (45°F). These conditions may have influenced the fire’s behavior and the response efforts.
Conclusion
The Essex fire serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of residential fires and the critical importance of preparedness and prompt response. Authorities continue to investigate the causes of these incidents and are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.
FAQ
What caused the fire in Essex?
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
How many people were affected by the fire?
Four individuals were hospitalized, including an infant in critical condition and three others treated for smoke inhalation.
What safety measures are recommended to prevent such incidents?
Authorities recommend installing smoke detectors and creating evacuation plans to enhance fire safety.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 1000 block of Foxcroft Lane, Essex, Maryland |
| Time of Incident | Just before 7 p.m. on Friday, January 16, 2026 |
| Number of People Affected | Four hospitalized, including an infant in critical condition |
| Fire Response | Two-alarm response; fire under control; two homes affected |
| Cause of Fire | Under investigation |
| Weather Conditions | Temperatures ranging from 1.4°C (34.5°F) to 7.2°C (45°F) |
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