Ocean City Fire Department Responds To Boardwalk Fire

On Friday, October 18, 2013, at approximately 12:30 p.m., Ocean City Communications received a call for a fire in the 600 block of Atlantic Avenue at the landmark Majestic hotel. Ocean City Fire Department personnel responded to the scene, which is located on the Ocean City boardwalk, and found fire coming from the building upon their arrival.

Witnesses told investigators that they heard a large “boom” come from the building and then reported seeing smoke. Due to the type of construction and the age of the building, a third alarm was called, however; members from the OCFD worked immediately to control the fire, which was extinguished a short time later.

The hotel is currently closed for the winter and the only known person on the premise was a maintenance worker. One fire cadet was treated on scene for a minor injury sustained during his response; however, no additional injuries were reported. The fire cadet was treated and released.

The initial investigation determined that the fire started in the basement store of the hotel. The cause of the fire, which is being handled by the Ocean City Fire Marshall’s Office, is still under investigation.