Historic Cumberland Buildings Destroyed By Fire

Historic Cumberland buildings were destroyed Saturday morning following a fire. According to the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office a  three alarm fire has destroyed two buildings within the historic district in the city of Cumberland. Nearly 125 firefighters from both Maryland and West Virginia were alerted to the blaze this morning shortly after 3:00 a.m. It took firefighters close to four hours to bring the fire under control. The fire was reported by a cab driver that was passing through the area. A team of fire investigators from the Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal as well as the Cumberland Fire Department, Office of the Fire Marshal were requested and remain on the scene to investigate the origin and cause of the blaze. They have determined the fire originated in 29 Prospect Square and caused significant fire and heat damage to the adjoining address identified as 27 Prospect Square. Firefighting efforts were hampered due to accessibility to the rear of both structures due to the construction of the buildings and narrow alleys. 29 Prospect Square is occupied by the Delaney and Bender Law firm as well as individual apartments. 27 Prospect Square consists of apartments. Both structures were not occupied at the time of the fire. Fire investigators have estimated that damages are at $500,000.00 to the 6,000 square foot fire scene which consists of both buildings which can be described as two and a half story brick colonial structures. No injuries have been reported as a result of the fire. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.