Story Category: Fire and Rescue News »

A fire Monday afternoon caused extensive damage to a Great Mills townhouse. According to the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office, the accidental fire at 45810 Church Drive was caused by a malfunctioning paper shredder on the seond floor of the building.

The fire was discovered by a neighbor and reported at 3:34 p.m. It took 24 firefighters from Bay Distrrict, Hollywood and Solomons volunter fire departmenmts five moinutes to bring the fire under control. Damage is estimated at $60,000 to the building and $10,000 to the contents. No one was injured.

The occupant of the townhouse, Tanya Gerhart, was displaced and is being assisted by the American Red Cross.

The fire was investigated by Deputy Fire Marshal Caryn McMahon.