JOPPA, Maryland — October 9, 2026 — Firefighters from multiple departments responded Friday to a large tire fire near a tire-processing facility in Harford County, Maryland, as thick black smoke rose above the Joppa and Edgewood areas. The emergency response brought together local crews and additional units from neighboring jurisdictions to contain the blaze and protect nearby properties.
The fire was reported at approximately 12:15 p.m. in the 1200 block of Pauls Lane in Joppa. Initial reports described burning tires near a processing facility, prompting a significant deployment of fire apparatus and specialized equipment.
Multiple Fire Departments Respond
The Joppa-Magnolia Volunteer Fire Company and Fallston Volunteer Fire and Ambulance Company were among the responders sent to the scene. Additional foam units were requested from Baltimore County, Baltimore City, and Aberdeen Proving Ground to assist with firefighting operations.
According to local reporting, approximately 40 to 50 personnel and 15 units were involved in the response. Firefighters used elevated ladder trucks to direct water onto the burning tire pile while crews worked to control the flames and limit the spread of the fire.
The large plume of smoke was visible from miles away, drawing attention from residents and motorists in surrounding communities.
Fire Contained to Tire Pile
Reports indicated that the fire was contained to a pile of shredded tires and did not spread to nearby buildings or other sections of the facility. Once the situation was brought under control, crews began working to clear the scene and assess the remaining hazards.
Tire fires can present significant challenges for emergency responders. Burning rubber may produce dense smoke, intense heat, and potentially hazardous pollutants. Large piles of tires can also retain heat, making extinguishment and monitoring difficult even after visible flames have diminished.
Residents who see heavy smoke should avoid approaching the incident and follow instructions issued by local emergency officials.
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