Md. firefighter dies in flashover at 4-alarm fire

Firefighters had rescued a woman and were searching for more possible survivors when the flashover occured; partner bailed from window

January 20, 2011 03:18 AM

By the CNN Wire Staff

PARKVILLE, Md. — A volunteer firefighter, the father of two young children, died Wednesday evening in a four-alarm apartment fire in the Parkville area of Baltimore County, Maryland, officials said.

Mark Falkenhan, 43, of the Lutherville Volunteer Fire Company, died at a hospital, said Baltimore County Fire Chief John J. Hohman.

Firefighters had rescued a woman and were searching for more possible survivors on the second and third floors when a “flashover” occurred, according to the chief.

A flashover is a powerful ignition of combustible materials.

Falkenhan’s partner managed to escape through a window, officials said.

“It’s a tragedy this man died in the line of duty saving lives,” County Executive Kevin Kamenetz told reporters.

Falkenhan had formerly worked with the Baltimore County department and left to work with the U.S. Secret Service, Hohman said.

Two other people were injured at the Towson Crossing apartment complex, according to CNN affiliate WBAL.

Investigators were on the scene, but a kitchen fire was reported in the basement, Hohman said.

“We have an inherently dangerous profession,” he said.