CAMBRIDGE, Md. — Authorities are investigating two structure fires that occurred at 5093 Stone Boundary Road in Cambridge on Wednesday afternoon, resulting in significant property damage but no reported injuries.
The fires broke out in a non-operational commercial butcher shop and a nearby vacant two-story farmhouse, both owned by Gregory Burton. The Rescue Fire Company of Cambridge responded to the scene, with 75 firefighters working for three hours to control the blaze. The operation included a two-alarm response and the deployment of a “Tanker Task Force” for additional water.
The owner discovered the fire, which is believed to have started inside the butcher shop. Embers from this initial fire reportedly ignited the cedar shingles on the adjacent farmhouse, leading to its destruction. Both structures have been declared total losses, with damages estimated at $600,000 for the buildings and an additional $250,000 for contents.
No smoke alarms or fire suppression systems were present in either structure. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, though it is noted that the owner had been working inside the butcher shop shortly before the fire started.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation continues.