Lawn mower fire in Wicomico County leaves operator burned during ditch work

Mardela Springs mower fire injures man, sparks $4,000 loss on Sharptown Road

Mardela Springs, MD – A routine yard work task escalated into a fire Saturday afternoon when a zero-turn lawn mower ignited dry grass in a ditch along Sharptown Road, leaving the operator with burn injuries and thousands of dollars in damage. The incident unfolded in the 10000 block just before 3 p.m., drawing a response from local firefighters and emergency crews.

The fire, involving a Bad Boy brand zero-turn lawn mower, was brought under control in approximately 10 minutes by the Mardela Springs Volunteer Fire Company. Officials said the blaze originated near the engine exhaust and was determined to be accidental.

Fire sparked by hot exhaust in dry grass

According to the investigation, the mower became stuck while cutting a ditch, creating conditions that led to ignition. “The lawn mower was being used to cut a ditch when it became stuck in a soft area. While the operator was attempting to g...