Bel Air Helps Respond to Baltimore Riots

Harford deputies and Bel Air firefighters are providing aid in Baltimore City after hours of riots broke out Monday.

Harford County Sheriff Jeffrey Gahler announced Monday night that he sent 22 deputies into the city, where officers from around the state were called in amid violence, looting and fires.

Four of the deputies had minor injuries after debris was thrown at their legs by rioters, and they returned home, according to The Dagger, which reported the officers worked overtime for three hours to help with a specific incident.

The Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company sent a ladder truck to fill in at a station in Baltimore City, as crews there were called out to blazes across the area in scenarios more dangerous than usual.

Police said Baltimore City firefighters were attempting to put out a fire on North and Pennsylvania avenues before 7 p.m. when rioters slashed their fire hoses. After midnight, Baltimore Police issued a plea for people to stop assaulting firefighters.

An engine from Fallston joined Bel Air at the Baltimore City Fire Department’s station on Hillen Road as crews from all over Maryland were asked to provide aid, according to Rich Gardiner, spokesman for the Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS Association.

The Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company’s Auxiliary is collecting donations to take to emergency personnel in Baltimore City Tuesday night. Water, drinks and snacks like bars that can be consumed on the go are welcome. Drop off donations at the Bel Air firehouse on Hickory Avenue; Jarrettsville Volunteer Fire Company; and Norrisville Volunteer Fire Company, where until 5 p.m. people can put items in the back of the utility truck parked the station at 2134 Harkins Road in Pylesville.

Photo Credit: Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company Chief Rick Davis Jr.

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