Crime & Safety
Walmart Fire On April Fools' Day Unofficially Linked To Paper Towels: Officials
A fire that broke out on April Fools' Day at a Prince George's County Walmart has been linked to a row of paper towels being set on fire.
PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, MD — It was no joke when a fire broke out on April Fools' Day at the Walmart in Clinton, although unofficial reports reveal a row of paper towels had been set on fire.
The Prince George's County Fire Department arrived at the store, located at 8745 Branch Avenue, shortly after 2 p.m. Friday, according to the department's tweet. Smoke could be seen from the roof. Firefighters reported zero visibility inside the store and assistance was needed to help air out the building.
The store was evacuated and, according to the department, the fire was quelled in approximately 20 minutes. Firefighters stayed on the scene for awhile to monitor for hot spots.
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Fire officials noted that one person and a firefighter were taken to the hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Damage has been estimated at $25,000, the department said.
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