A house fire on Hopewell Place in Charles County prompted a full response from La Plata Volunteer Fire Department units on Sunday, January 25, 2026, with heavy fire conditions leading to a roof collapse and one resident displaced.
The incident was dispatched at 9:43 a.m. to the department’s first-due area. Engine 11, Engine 12, Engine 14, Rescue Engine 1, Foam Tanker 1, and Chief 1A responded with 17 volunteers. Inclement weather and road conditions significantly slowed arrival times compared to standard response.
Crews found fire visible from the rear of the single-family home upon arrival. An offensive interior attack was launched, but deteriorating structural integrity forced withdrawal. The roof subsequently collapsed. Firefighters re-entered the structure for overhaul operations to extinguish remaining hot spots and ensure no extension.
No injuries were reported among residents or responders. One person was displaced as a result of the fire. Units cleared the scene at 12:47 p.m.
The La Plata Volunteer Fire Department thanked its Ladies Auxiliary for providing refreshments and breakfast upon the crews’ return to the station.
In addition to the house fire, a fifth crew staffed the firehouse during the event and managed several storm-related calls, supporting continued emergency coverage in the area. Southern Maryland experienced winter weather conditions around this period, contributing to hazardous travel and response challenges for first responders across the region.
This response highlights ongoing challenges for volunteer fire departments during severe weather, where delayed arrivals due to road conditions can complicate fire suppression efforts. The shift to defensive operations and subsequent overhaul following the collapse is a standard safety protocol when structural stability is compromised.