West Baltimore Rowhome Fire in Harlem Park Leaves 65-Year-Old Dead; Second Resident Hospitalized Tuesday

Fatal fire reported on Brune Street

A 65-year-old man died Tuesday morning after a fire broke out inside a West Baltimore rowhome in the Harlem Park neighborhood. A second occupant, a 33-year-old man, escaped the home and was later transported to a hospital with injuries described by fire officials as serious but not life-threatening.

Fire crews were dispatched to the 700 block of Brune Street at about 10 a.m. Upon arrival, responders encountered heavy smoke and active fire conditions inside the residence, described as a three-story rowhouse with fire showing from the first floor. The fire was brought under control before it could extend to nearby structures.

What is known about the victims

The 33-year-old man was able to evacuate before firefighters arrived and received medical attention. The 65-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials have not released the identity of either individual or clarified the nature of their relationship, pending notification processes and the ongoing investigation.

• One fatality reported at the scene: a 65-year-old male resident.
• One survivor transported to the hospital: a 33-year-old male, injuries reported as non-life-threatening.
• No firefighter injuries were reported by responding agencies.

Investigation and the role of fire investigators

The cause of the fire remained under investigation Tuesday. Fire investigators and arson personnel responded as part of the standard process for determining origin and cause, particularly in incidents involving a death. Authorities have not publicly identified an ignition source, ruled on whether the fire was accidental, or provided a timeline for investigative findings.

Officials said the cause of the fire and the cause of death were still being examined as investigators worked at the scene Tuesday.

Cold-weather conditions complicated response

The incident occurred amid a period of extreme cold in the Baltimore area. Fire officials reported that frigid temperatures and wind chill were factors during the response, conditions that can create additional hazards at active fire scenes, including frozen hoses and icy surfaces as water is applied.

City and regional cold-weather alerts remained in effect Tuesday, and public safety officials continued urging residents to use heating equipment safely. No direct connection between the cold snap and this specific fire has been confirmed by investigators.

What happens next

Investigators are expected to continue examining the structure for burn patterns, potential electrical issues, and other evidence that could explain how the fire started and spread. Any final determination typically follows scene processing, interviews, and, when applicable, medical examiner findings related to cause and manner of death.