Baltimore Rioters Set Fires, Cut Hoses

April 28, 2015
Mutual aid was requested from surrounding counties after city resources were exhausted.

Baltimore City firefighters called for help from nearby county departments as they responded to a number of fires torched by rioters Monday night.

For more than an hour in the afternoon, video showed looters running in and out of a CVS store carrying goods.

When heavy smoke erupted, fire trucks snaked through streets, many crowded with protesters. However, some residents were seen trying to clear a path.

The incident commander advised crews the building was going to be lost, and ordered no more companies be dispatched.

At one point, crews reported their hoses were being cut. Water supply was on and off. With the roof sagging, officers ordered a collapse zone be established.

Throughout the incident, crews called for police assistance as they attempted to establish and maintain water supply and other duties. Gas company officials refused to respond to the scene.

Earlier in the afternoon, police and civilian vehicles were set afire as well.

At least 15 officers were injured, including one who was knocked unconscious. Others suffered fractures and lacerations.

Monday evening, Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan declared a state of emergency, and deployed the National Guard. At least 5,000 were headed to the city.

A number of downtown stores including businesses in a mall were looted.

A senior citizen housing complex under construction in another area of Baltimore was set ablaze later Monday night. Flames were visible for more than 20 miles, state police reported.

The multi-alarm fire was surrounded by both rioters and residents who formed prayer circles. Firefighting was difficult at this location as well. 

About 11:30 p.m., a firefighter reported heavy fire showing from a store. Overnight, they also battled several fires, including a large structure on Pratt Street and Pulaski Highway

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