Two adults found dead after five-alarm Hampden fire spreads to multiple units
BALTIMORE - Two adults were found dead after a five-alarm fire in the Hampden neighborhood displaced multiple families early Tuesday morning, according to the Baltimore City Fire Department.
Fire officials were dispatched to the 3400 block of Keswick Road shortly after 5:30 a.m. Upon arrival, firefighters witnessed the blaze showing from the roof of the complex, affecting multiple row homes.
The fire quickly spread, damaging at least eight units. Officials said 63-year-old Matthew Schmale and his 63-year-old wife Kathy Schmale died in the fire and dozens were displaced.
"It started in the middle of the units, we think," Baltimore fire spokesperson John Marsh said. "When we pulled up, there was a working fire in three units that was full ablaze on both floors."
One individual was treated for minor injuries after being sent to a hospital. A separate family reported that two of their family members were missing. Those two were found dead after an hours-long search, according to Baltimore City Police.
"You looked up and the whole sky was red," said Cara Bates, who was displaced by the fire. "It was insane."
Meanwhile, displaced families are getting help from their neighbors.
Another fire victim who did not want to be identified said she woke up to the sound of her smoke alarm going off Tuesday. She said one of her neighbors is housing several people as they work to get on their feet.
Other neighbors are already talking about ways to lend a hand after the flames. The Red Cross is also assisting victims.
The cause of the fire is currently unknown.
"Our hearts are heavy today with the loss of two of our residents in this morning's fire, and we grieve with their family, loved ones, and neighbors," Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott said. "The City of Baltimore will stand with these families to offer whatever support possible for those who lost loved ones or property in this devastating fire."
