SCFR Responds to Large Structure Fire

At approximately 12:45 on Monday, June 28th, units with Stafford County Fire and Rescue (SCFR) were dispatched for a structure fire in the 400 block of Potomac Hills Drive. First arriving units arrived less than three minutes later and reported heavy smoke and fire coming from the side and roof of an end of the row townhome. Units found fire throughout one townhome, as well as portions of neighboring homes. Operations were quickly moved to a defensive attack due the structure being unstable from fire impingement. A second alarm was struck, bringing additional resources to the scene. The fire was brought under control in approximately 30 minutes. Two townhomes had significant damage as a result and are considered a total loss. Two additional townhomes had minor damage and are able to be occupied.

One civilian was transported from the scene to a local hospital for smoke inhalation, and has since been released. Two firefighters experienced heat related illness and were evaluated at the scene and did not require transport. Currently, 8 people and two dogs have been displaced.

SCFR units were assisted on scene by Quantico Fire and Emergency Services, Prince William County Fire and Rescue and the Fredericksburg Fire Department. Units from Fauquier County Fire and Rescue and Spotsylvania County Fire and Rescue assisted in responding to other calls across Stafford County during the duration of the incident.
The Stafford County Fire Marshal’s Office investigated the fire and determined it to be accidental as the result of improperly discarded smoking materials. Total damages are estimated at $400,000.