UPDATE: Two Arson Arrests for Duck Blind Fire in Dorchester County
March 19, 2025/
UPDATE–3/19/25:
Two Dorchester County men have been charged with Arson after a duck blind fire earlier this month. Deputy State Fire Marshals arrested Paul Ellwood and Edwin Krell—both in their 40’s– for a fire that was intentionally set in early March. The fire occurred at the duck blind at Bluff Point in Hoopersville. Investigators determined that the fire was intentionally set and caused $2,000.00 in damages to the blind. Prior to the arrival of firefighters, the blaze had spread to and burned a portion of marsh land surrounding the blind. They were seen by the Court Commissioner in Dorchester County virtually at the Dorchester County Detention Center where they were later released on a $5,000.00 bond. Both Ellwood and Krell face charges of Arson 2nd Degree, Conspiracy to Commit Arson in the 2nd Degree, Malicious Burning 1st and 2nd Degree, and Reckless Endangerment. If convicted of all crimes they face a maximum penalty of 44 years in prison and /or $51,000.00 in fines.
Edwin Krell (46)
Paul Ellwood (43)
Original Post:
A fire that occurred early in the evening on March 3rd at 40 Square-foot wood framed duck blind is under investigation. The blaze began on the inside of the structure. The location of the Duck Blind is in a marsh area on Hoopersville Road, South of Ferry Bridge on Hoopers Island in Dorchester County. No injuries were reported. Damage to the structure was estimated at $2,000. Anyone with either suspect or owner information, should contact the Office of the State Fire Marshal’s Salisbury office at 410-713-3780.