Explosion Triggers Second-Alarm Fire at Auto Body Shop in Hollywood, MD

HOLLYWOOD, MD — An explosion ignited a massive second-alarm fire Saturday afternoon at Maximum Auto Body on Commerce Avenue, sending thick black smoke over Hollywood and destroying dozens of vehicles. Fire crews responded around 3:48 p.m. and found roughly 20 vehicles stacked behind the shop fully engulfed in flames. Due to the intensity of the fire, commanders immediately called in additional units to help contain the blaze.

Engine 73 deployed two hose lines while incoming crews established a stronger water supply and attacked the fire from multiple directions, including Sandy Bottom Road. Burning fuel and other flammable liquids leaking from the vehicles caused the fire to spread rapidly, creating dangerous conditions for firefighters. Crews battled the blaze for nearly five hours before bringing it under control. Despite the scale of the fire, no injuries occurred, and all personnel remained accounted for throughout the operation.

The Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office has launched an investigation into the explosion in coordination with the property owner. Officials have not yet released a cause.