More than thirty years after a late-night fire tore through an Essex apartment building, Baltimore County police are making a fresh push for answers in an arson that killed a mother and her 8-year-old daughter.
The blaze broke out just after midnight on May 24, 1992, in the 1400 block of Hadwick Drive, ripping through the building and killing 30-year-old Mary Lee Gericke and her daughter Victoria, investigators say. The case has stayed open ever since, and detectives are again asking anyone who knows something to come forward in hopes that a new tip finally breaks the stalemate.
As reported by Fox Baltimore, the fire started in the hallway of the building and the case remains unsolved. Residents were jolted awake by the smell of smoke as flames spread, and Gericke and her daughter died while trying to escape. Anyone with information is asked to call Baltimore County police at 410-887-3943 or text tips to 443-862-9426, the outlet reports.
Neighbors Describe Chaos That Night
Cpl. Dona Carter told WMAR‑2 News that “Many people jumped from the building” as the fire spread. She said several bystanders tried to help residents escape and that at least 10 people were hospitalized with burns or injuries from falling. Police say multiple witnesses have been interviewed over the years, but earlier leads have not produced a viable suspect.
Evidence Points To Deliberate Setting
Investigators determined the blaze was intentionally set and said they found a flammable liquid in the basement stairway, according to Fox Baltimore. Officials say the arson caused more than $500,000 in damage to the building. Despite the evidence, no one has been charged in the deaths.
How To Help Solve The Case
Detectives say that even small memories or old photographs can matter in a cold-case review, and WMAR‑2 News reports investigators have stepped up interviews in recent years as part of a renewed effort. People who may have information are urged to call or text the numbers listed above. Investigators say community tips have helped solve other cold cases and could be the break this investigation needs.
