At approximately 3:00 p.m. today, we received multiple 911 calls indicating a fire alarm and sprinkler activation on the 10th floor of 130 Hearne Road, a high-rise apartment complex in Annapolis.
The Anne Arundel County Fire Department, with mutual aid from the Annapolis Fire Department, arrived on the scene within minutes of being dispatched. Firefighters responded to the 10th floor and confirmed the sprinkler system had activated. Additionally, firefighters reported smoke in the hallway from one of the apartments on the 10th floor.
Firefighters quickly made entry into that apartment and discovered one occupant (later identified as John Wesley Blunt, D.O.B. 8/1/1950) inside the unit unresponsive and later pronounced deceased on the scene.
Anne Arundel County Fire Investigators responded to the scene and determined the fire was caused by smoking while using medical oxygen. Oxygen-rich environments significantly increase the risk of fast-spreading and intense fires.
The fire sprinkler system worked appropriately, containing and controlling the fire in the originating apartment, preventing its spread and protecting the other occupants in the building.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of the victim. This is a tragic incident and serves as a reminder of the dangers of smoking while using home oxygen units.
This is the fourth fire fatality in Anne Arundel County in 2025. The first two deaths were from the same fire on February 20th, which was determined to be accidental. The third fatality was on March 25th, and the cause is still under investigation.
The Anne Arundel County Fire Department urges all community members to visit our website and follow us on social media for fire prevention and safety tips.