Inmates Set Fires At Baltimore Jail, Dozens Injured: Officials

BALTIMORE, MD — Authorities said inmates intentionally set several fires at a Baltimore correctional facility Sunday night, injuring more than two dozen people.

According to the Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office, the fires happened at the Reception, Diagnostic and Classification Center (MRDCC). The Baltimore City Fire Department responded to 550 East Madison St. at 7:40 p.m. for a building fire.

Officials said correctional officers reported a fire on the fifth floor of the detention center and were evacuating inmates from the housing unit. Firefighters encountered heavy smoke conditions and were able to extinguish the fire within minutes.

Baltimore City Fire Department confirmed that 28 people were treated for minor smoke inhalation, while three inmates and one correctional officer were transported to local hospitals for evaluation.

Because the detention center is a state facility, the Office of the State Fire Marshal took the lead in the origin and cause investigation.

Deputy State Fire Marshals concluded that a total of three fires were intentionally set in the common area of the tier. The items included paper products, clothing and a heavy-duty plastic rolling food cart.

While investigators were investigating the fire, authorities said inmates on a separate tier set two more fires, including clothing and a food cart. Baltimore City firefighters were assisting investigators and quickly extinguished the fire.

The investigation remains under investigation. According to the Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office, charges are expected to be filed after consultation with the Baltimore City State's Attorney's Office.