ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 9, 2024) – A one-alarm fire at The Light House on Hudson Street in Annapolis has temporarily displaced more than 70 shelter residents.

According to Annapolis Fire Chief Douglas Remaley, at approximately 5:35 p.m. on Tuesday, January 9, firefighters were dispatched to 10 Hudson Street for a fire alarm. While responding, additional information by the 911 center reported a fire in the building, bringing additional firefighters to the scene.

Firefighters quickly entered and found an extinguished fire in the laundry room on the second floor with no extension. There were no injuries to fire or civilian personnel. Preliminary investigation revealed that the fire started from a malfunctioning light fixture in the laundry room on the second floor of a three-story structure.

A total of 70 people were displaced primarily as a result of water dispersal from the sprinkler system. Residents will return to the building after appropriate repairs and inspection.

The Annapolis Office of Emergency Management helped to coordinate the relocation of shelter residents. Annapolis Recreation and Parks staff are preparing the auxiliary gym for overnight guests at the Roger “Pip” Moyer Recreation Center on Hilltop Lane. Annapolis Transit will transport the shelter residents to the Recreation Center.

“All of us at The Light House would like to express our sincerest gratitude to those who have been assisting us during this time,” said Heather Cassity, Executive Director of The Light House. “This was a tremendous coordinated effort. Everyone came together to help our neighbors in need. The silver lining of coming out of the pandemic is that it has strengthened the ties that we have with our community partners, and together we can respond with an efficient effort when emergencies happen. We are so grateful that everyone is safe and there are many heroes behind the scenes. We’re eager to have our doors reopen as soon as possible and we are making all efforts for limited interruption.”

Some of the residents sought overnight accommodations with family or friends. A total of 44 residents were transported to the Recreation Center where they will stay for at least one overnight while repairs are made. Light House staff have been notified and will continue uninterrupted care for our residents. All Light House support services including meals, case management, and other basic needs will continue to be provided to residents during their stay at Pip Moyer Recreation Center.

At this time, Annapolis Fire reports that damage loss estimates are pending. There were both working smoke alarms and a properly functioning sprinkler system. Responding partner agencies included Anne Arundel County Fire and Naval District Washington Support Activities (NSA) Annapolis.

For questions or information about Light House services during this time please email info@annapolislighthouse.org.