A massive fire erupted at the Owl Metals recycling plant in Dundalk, Maryland, on Thursday, sparking a significant emergency response and causing widespread concern among residents and authorities. The three-alarm blaze, which broke out at the facility on Rettman Lane, led to the partial collapse of the building and sent thick clouds of smoke billowing into the sky.
The incident unfolded around midday, quickly drawing the attention of residents and emergency services. Sharon Thompson, a Dundalk resident who lives near the recycling plant, described the scene as overwhelming. “There was so much smoke and flames. We could feel the heat from our yard,” she said. Thompson acted swiftly to protect her family, particularly her father, who relies on oxygen. “My first reaction was to get my dad out of the house,” she explained. The situation underscored the urgency and potential danger posed by the fire.
Baltimore County fire crews were dispatched immediately, supported by units from Baltimore City and fire rescue boats. Their combined efforts aimed to contain the inferno and minimize the impact on the surrounding area. Despite their swift action, the fire’s intensity and the building’s partial collapse posed significant challenges. Firefighters worked tirelessly to prevent the flames from spreading to nearby structures and endangering more lives.
One injury was reported during the incident. An elderly man living near the recycling plant was transported to the hospital as a precautionary measure. Baltimore County Fire Chief Joe Dixon confirmed that broader evacuations were considered but ultimately deemed unnecessary. “We evaluated the situation and determined that a full-scale evacuation wasn’t required. Only one individual needed hospital treatment,” Dixon said. Residents in the immediate vicinity were advised to shelter in place as crews battled the flames.
The fire also caused significant disruptions to the local community and infrastructure. All lanes of MD 157 between Bethlehem Boulevard and Merritt Boulevard were closed, creating traffic snarls and delays for drivers in the area. The Maryland State Highway Administration urged motorists to avoid the affected routes and seek alternative paths. Baltimore County Police also issued warnings on social media, advising the public to steer clear of the Peninsula Expressway and Stansbury Park areas while emergency crews remained on-site.
This incident is not the first fire reported at the Owl Metals recycling plant. Sharon Thompson noted that previous fires had occurred at the facility, a fact confirmed by Fire Chief Dixon. While the exact number of past incidents remains unclear, the plant’s history raises questions about safety measures and potential vulnerabilities. Chief Dixon acknowledged the reported incidents but refrained from commenting on specific details. This history has prompted concerns among residents about the potential risks associated with the facility’s operations and whether adequate precautions are in place.
The intensity of the fire and the associated disruptions also highlighted the challenges faced by emergency responders. As crews worked to contain the flames, they coordinated efforts to ensure the safety of residents, protect nearby properties, and maintain order in the affected area. Their quick response and dedication were instrumental in preventing further harm.
In addition to the immediate fire response, investigators are now tasked with determining the cause of the blaze and evaluating whether there were any lapses in safety protocols at the Owl Metals facility. The findings will play a crucial role in understanding how such incidents can be prevented in the future. For Dundalk residents, the fire serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by industrial operations located near residential neighborhoods.
The incident has left the Dundalk community grappling with the aftermath of the fire and its impact on daily life. Smoke and ash blanketed the area, creating concerns about air quality and visibility. Local authorities have emphasized the importance of safety and vigilance as the investigation continues. Meanwhile, residents are calling for enhanced safety measures to ensure that such incidents do not recur.
As the situation develops, many in the community are relying on updates from local news outlets and authorities. Baltimore County Fire Department officials have pledged to provide regular information on their progress in addressing the incident and its aftermath. For now, the focus remains on recovery and ensuring the safety of Dundalk residents.
Stay connected with CBS News Baltimore for further updates on this developing story.
