Brodbeck Hall Catches Fire following lightning strike

FREDERICK, MD – At 1:49 a.m., the fire alarm in Brodbeck Hall was activated. Campus safety investigated the alarm, and immediately dispatched the fire department. Frederick County Fire & Rescue (FCFR).

Units from FCFR arrived at 1:53 a.m. to find fire showing from the music hall's cupola. A self-activating fire extinguisher and second alarm were immediately requested as crews began working with Hood College staff to access the empty building and evacuate people from nearby Smith Hall. Approximately 75 firefighters utilized an aggressive interior attack to knock the bulk of the fire in an hour. Units remained on location for an additional hour to extinguish hotspots, perform overhaul, and place protective coverings over the organ, piano, and other instruments to prevent water damage.

There were no injuries to civilians or fire department personnel. The Frederick County Fire Marshal’s Office is currently on the scene investigating. 

Brodbeck Hall is strictly off-limits until further notice. Please avoid the walkways/roadways around that building to maintain a safe perimeter.

Hood College is grateful to the quick response of campus safety, the RA’s who took care of our Smith residents, and of course, the FCFR for their service.

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