Rosedale, Md. — A 66-year-old man has been charged with arson following a severe explosion that destroyed his home earlier this year. Mark Hawkins now faces charges of first-degree arson and first-degree malicious burning in connection with the incident, which occurred on July 1 in the 8100 block of Callo Lane.
The explosion shook the neighborhood around 2 a.m. that day, sending shockwaves that rattled nearby homes and startled residents from their sleep. Witnesses reported a massive fireball rising into the sky, while debris was propelled across the street. “You could feel the explosion from inside my house. It was terrifying,” one neighbor said, recalling the panic that ensued as they sought help.
Firefighters responded promptly to the scene, only to find the house completely leveled and engulfed in flames. Their immediate goal turned to preventing the fire from spreading to adjacent properties. Fire officials described the scene as “devastating,” with chaotic visuals of collapsing walls and breaking glass.
Fortunately, at the time of the explosion, no one was present in the house. The family had been out of town, and authorities confirmed that there were no reported injuries. Baltimore Gas and Electric quickly shut off services to the area to ensure safety, allowing firefighters to focus on extinguishing the remnants of the blaze.
Investigators from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, alongside local fire marshals, are now meticulously sifting through the debris to determine the explosion’s cause. The behavior of Hawkins leading up to the event is under scrutiny as authorities try to piece together the circumstances.
Residents have expressed disbelief at the destruction, noting that the once-familiar home now appears as little more than a pile of rubble. “You wouldn’t even recognize that a house stood there,” another neighbor stated.
As the investigation continues, many in the community remain on edge, anxious for answers regarding the events that led to such a catastrophic incident. The case’s developments are expected to raise questions about safety practices and the accountability of property owners in similar situations.