41000 CHICKENS PERISH IN SOMERSET COUNTY CHICKEN HOUSE FIRE

Princess Anne, MD - On Saturday, March 1, 2025, a devastating fire broke out on Petes Hill Road in Princess Anne, Maryland, resulting in the destruction of two chicken houses and a vehicle, as well as the loss of approximately 41,000 chickens.  

The fire occurred at an agricultural property containing two chicken houses, one measuring approximately 40'x400' and the other 50'x500', along with a Toyota Highlander SUV.

The Princess Anne Volunteer Fire Company responded to the incident with 30 firefighters, taking 45 minutes to bring the blaze under control.  

The total estimated loss from the fire is $200,000, including $150,000 in structural damages and $50,000 in lost contents. Tragically, roughly 41,000 chickens perished in the fire.  

The property owner reportedly received a system trouble alarm around 12:00 PM on the day of the incident. Upon returning to the property approximately one hour later, a chicken house had already burned and collapsed.

The owner attempted to prevent the fire from spreading to a neighboring chicken house, but both the structure and their vehicle were ultimately overtaken by the flames.  

The fire department's swift response successfully contained the fire to the two chicken houses and the vehicle, limiting further damage to the property.  

The origin and cause of the fire are currently under investigation. No injuries to individuals were reported.