PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NEWBURG VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
Mechanicsville, MD – A pole barn that was being used as a lumber mill was totally destroyed by an early morning fire, state officials reported.
According to the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office, the blaze, which occurred on James Road in Mechanicsville, was reported shortly before 4 a.m. Friday, July 31.
The barn, which sources report was located on an Amish farm, was 30 by 60 feet.
“The fire was caused by machinery igniting sawdust,” stated Dfm. John Nelson. “The sawmill and its contents were destroyed.” No injuries were reported. Damage is estimated at $80,000.
The property owner was identified by investigators as Benjamin Stoltzfus.
Nelson reported 35 firefighters from Mechanicsville, Hughesville, Newburg, Bel Alton, Benedict, Seventh District and Leonardtown were dispatched to the scene and brought the flames under control in 30 minutes.
Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com
