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Charles Armstrong was flown to the Burn Center at MedStar Washington Hospital Center by Maryland State Police on Tuesday with first- second- and third-degree burns after being overcome by a brush fire he was tending to.
The incident was reported at around 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 5 in the 15100 block of Long Hill Drive in Cresaptown.
Officials say that the fire was only discovered because an employee at American Insurance Center flew a drone into the area to investigate why smoke was billowing through the area.
He found the fire on the property, and drove to the home with another man and found Armstrong among the charred remains, according to the fire marshal. They then used portable fire extinguishers to extinguish the fire, pulled Armstrong to safety, and called 911.
Armstrong was treated by Allegany County Department of Emergency Service personnel before being airlifted to the DC burn center. He was pronounced dead at the hospital on Wednesday, Sept. 6.
Investigators said that Armstrong was burning brush when the fire extended beyond his control, and heavy smoke and flames impeded his ability to move away safely.
It is not believed that he was using any sort of accelerant to fodder the flames.
"My heart breaks for the family of Mr. Armstrong," State Fire Marshal Brian Geraci said. "This is a horrific situation that demonstrates the hot weather and dry conditions are not exaggerated, and they affect every one of us.
"We continuously stress the importance of fire safety within the home; however, Marylanders must also be mindful of the extreme dangers associated with burning outdoors," he continued. "Doing any activity involving fire right now can lead to tragedy for you, your loved ones, your neighbors, and your community."
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