Arrest Made in June 22, 2021 West Ocean City Harbor Road Fire
“Worcester County Fire Marshal Jeff McMahon announced today an arrest has been made in the arson which destroyed a house, boat house and damaged 3 other homes on June 22, 2021 at 12849 Harbor Road in West Ocean City, Maryland. The fire occurred at 1:51AM and summoned several fire companies from the area to fight the blaze. Two firefighters received injuries while battling the fire. A warrant was issued for John Edward Cropper, 56, DOB 12/23/1964 for the arson. At the time of the fire Mr. Cropper resided at 8241 Stephen Decatur Highway in Ocean City, Maryland. Four (4) Charges of Arson-1st Degree, along with a charge of Arson-2nd Degree and Malicious Burning were issued last month. The charges were the result of a dual investigation between the WORCESTER COUNTY Fire Marshal’s Office and County’s Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Mr. Cropper was arrested Friday (evening 12/19/21) in Snow Hill and after a making an initial appearance before a Maryland District Court Commissioner was held without bail pending a bond review hearing early next week. Other agencies involved with the investigation and scene process included the Ocean City Fire Marshal’s Office, the Maryland State K9 Division of the State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Forensic Division of the Ocean City Police Department.”
For further information contact Worcester County Fire Marshal Jeff McMahon at jmcmahon@co.worcester.md.us or 410-632-5666 ext. 1.
Photo Credit: Ocean City Fire Department
