Towson, MD, January 20, 2026
A three-alarm fire broke out on the third floor of the Berkshires at Town Center Apartments in Towson, injuring nine people who were transported to local hospitals. Firefighters responded quickly to extinguish the flames and remove smoke from the building. The cause of the fire is under investigation. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges local fire departments face in managing significant fires and ensuring public safety.
Baltimore, MD: Three-Alarm Fire at Towson Apartment Building Injures Nine
Baltimore County, MD – A three-alarm fire erupted on the third floor of the Berkshires at Town Center Apartments in Towson on Monday evening, resulting in nine individuals being transported to local hospitals. The incident occurred around 7:30 p.m. at 204 East Joppa Road. Firefighters swiftly responded, extinguishing the blaze by 8:30 p.m. and working to clear smoke from the building. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
Details of the Incident
Upon arrival, emergency crews found active flames on the third floor of the high-rise apartment complex. Immediate rescue operations were initiated to assist residents trapped inside. The fire’s rapid escalation prompted the deployment of additional resources, leading to the third-alarm response. By shortly after 8 p.m., the fire was successfully extinguished, and efforts focused on ventilating the building to remove smoke from hallways and residential units. Nine individuals were evaluated at the scene and subsequently transported to local hospitals for medical treatment. The extent of their injuries has not been disclosed. The Baltimore County Fire Department is conducting an investigation to determine the fire’s origin and cause. No further details regarding the patients or the specific origin of the flames have been made available at this time.
Background Information
This incident marks the latest in a series of significant fires in the Baltimore area. In August 2025, a lightning strike ignited a three-alarm fire in Pikesville, resulting in minor injuries to two firefighters. In May 2025, a massive seven-alarm fire engulfed a West Baltimore warehouse, disrupting rail services and displacing residents. These events underscore the ongoing challenges faced by local fire departments in managing large-scale fires and ensuring public safety. The Baltimore County Fire Department continues to enhance its response strategies and community outreach to mitigate the impact of such incidents.
Safety Recommendations
Residents are advised to review and practice their home escape plans regularly. Key safety tips include:
- Ensure working smoke alarms are installed in each bedroom and outside sleeping areas.
- Test smoke alarms monthly to confirm they are operational.
- Create a home escape plan with at least two ways out of every room.
- Establish a safe meeting place outside the home.
- Conduct fire drills at least twice a year to familiarize all household members with the escape plan.
For more detailed safety guidelines, residents can refer to the Baltimore City Fire Department’s official safety tips.
Related Incidents
In addition to the Towson fire, other notable incidents in the region include:
- Historic Building Fire in Hampden: A three-alarm fire in November 2025 severely damaged the old Northern District Police Station, a historic building in Hampden. The roof collapsed, and the third floor was destroyed. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the cause is under investigation.
- High-Rise Fire in Towson: In January 2026, a three-alarm fire at the Berkshires at Town Center Apartments in Towson resulted in nine individuals being hospitalized. The fire originated on the third floor, and the cause is under investigation.
These incidents highlight the importance of fire safety awareness and preparedness within the community.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 204 East Joppa Road, Towson, MD |
| Time of Incident | Approximately 7:30 p.m., January 19, 2026 |
| Fire Response | Three-alarm response; fire extinguished by 8:30 p.m. |
| Injuries | Nine individuals transported to local hospitals; extent of injuries undisclosed |
| Cause | Under investigation by Baltimore County Fire Department |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What caused the three-alarm fire at the Berkshires at Town Center Apartments in Towson?
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Baltimore County Fire Department. No further details have been released at this time.
How many people were injured in the Towson apartment fire?
Nine individuals were transported to local hospitals following the fire. The extent of their injuries has not been disclosed.
What safety measures should residents take to prevent fires?
Residents are advised to ensure working smoke alarms are installed in each bedroom and outside sleeping areas, test alarms monthly, create a home escape plan with at least two ways out of every room, establish a safe meeting place outside the home, and conduct fire drills at least twice a year.
Have there been other significant fires in the Baltimore area recently?
Yes, in August 2025, a lightning strike caused a three-alarm fire in Pikesville, resulting in minor injuries to two firefighters. In May 2025, a massive seven-alarm fire engulfed a West Baltimore warehouse, disrupting rail services and displacing residents.
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