W. Cliff Long, Miriam Edgerley Long Obituary, Death – A devastating house fire in Joppa, Maryland, claimed the lives of two elderly residents early Wednesday morning, according to a statement released by the Maryland State Fire Marshal. The tragic incident took place on Gunpowder Drive and prompted a swift response from emergency crews following a 911 call.
Authorities received the emergency call at 8:10 a.m. after a neighbor reported seeing smoke and flames coming from a home located at 6 Gunpowder Drive. The concerned neighbor’s alert led to the rapid dispatch of fire and rescue personnel to the scene. When firefighters arrived, they encountered intense fire conditions already consuming parts of the residence. Witnesses at the scene informed first responders that two individuals were possibly trapped inside the burning house.
Fire crews worked quickly to gain access and perform search-and-rescue operations despite the challenging conditions. A male occupant was pulled from the home during the rescue efforts. Unfortunately, he did not survive. A second victim, a female, was later found deceased inside the structure. Both individuals were pronounced dead at the scene.
Officials later identified the victims as 82-year-old W. Cliff Long and 81-year-old Miriam Edgerley Long. The couple were residents of the home and had likely been inside when the fire broke out. Their deaths have sent shockwaves through the local community, where the couple was known and respected.
The Maryland Office of the State Fire Marshal launched an investigation to determine the origin and cause of the fire. Preliminary findings revealed that the blaze originated in a room located on the front left side of the house. However, investigators have not yet concluded what specifically caused the fire to start. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional details are expected to be released as more information becomes available.
One concerning discovery during the investigation was the absence of smoke alarms in the home. Deputy State Fire Marshals found no evidence of functioning smoke detectors, a critical safety feature that may have made a difference in alerting the victims to the danger earlier.
Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray expressed deep sorrow over the incident and emphasized the importance of fire prevention and preparedness. “Our hearts break for Mr. and Mrs. Long,” said Mowbray in a public statement. “These are devastating reminders of the importance of fire safety, especially having working smoke alarms. Please check your smoke alarms, have an escape plan, and practice it. If a fire should break out — get out, stay out.”
Fire safety experts continue to stress the role that early warning systems like smoke alarms play in saving lives during house fires. When fires occur during the early morning hours, as was the case in this incident, victims may be asleep and unaware of the danger until it’s too late. Properly installed and maintained smoke alarms provide critical minutes for escape and can significantly reduce the risk of death in a house fire.
The tragedy in Joppa is serving as a solemn call to action for other residents to take fire safety seriously. Fire officials recommend installing smoke alarms on every level of a home, inside each bedroom, and outside sleeping areas. Smoke alarms should be tested monthly, and batteries replaced at least once a year unless the alarm uses a 10-year battery. Homes should also have a fire escape plan that is regularly reviewed and practiced by all household members.
In addition to the fire marshal’s team, local fire departments and emergency medical services responded to the scene. Their efforts to contain the fire and rescue the victims were immediate and intense, though sadly not enough to prevent the loss of life.
The community is now mourning the deaths of Cliff and Miriam Long, who were described by neighbors as kind and friendly. Flowers and condolences have begun to appear near the scene as residents come to terms with the tragedy. The loss has also prompted some in the neighborhood to reevaluate their own homes for fire safety compliance.
As the investigation into the exact cause of the fire continues, authorities are urging the public to be vigilant about fire risks in the home, particularly for older adults who may have limited mobility. Special programs are available in some areas to assist seniors in installing smoke alarms or conducting home safety checks.
The deaths of Cliff and Miriam Long highlight the cruel speed at which a fire can turn fatal and the importance of taking every precaution. While fire departments and emergency responders stand ready to act when disaster strikes, the key to survival often lies in prevention and preparedness.
For now, the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office continues its efforts to determine what sparked the fatal blaze and to raise awareness about the critical role of smoke alarms. The Longs’ passing stands as a heartbreaking reminder that fire safety is not just a guideline—it can be a matter of life and death.