Central Nova News

The Alexandria Fire Department (AFD) has successfully completed its intensive firefighting operations following a major fire at a commercial strip warehouse located at 4407 Wheeler Avenue.

According to reports, the incident began as a fire alarm at 9:20 p.m. on Tuesday. However, the situation quickly escalated, with heavy flames observed through the roof of the building. Over 100 firefighters from AFD and surrounding jurisdictions were called in to support the fire attack activities.

Throughout the night, firefighters worked tirelessly to address hot spots under the collapsed structure. Unfortunately, one firefighter sustained a minor injury during the operation but has since been treated and released from INOVA Alexandria Hospital.

City structural engineers have evaluated the building and have determined it to be unsafe for interior entry. As a result, operations will resume tomorrow to render the building safe and allow for further fire investigation.

Currently, AFD units and a regional investigation team, including members from Arlington County, Fairfax County, City of Fairfax, and the Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF), remain on the scene. They are utilizing special equipment, building engineers, and drone technology to ensure the safety of investigators and assist in sifting through the collapsed portions of the building. Onsite operations and investigation are expected to continue for the next several days.

The fire has also had an impact on local businesses and community services. One of the affected businesses is Jeffery's Catering, a key provider for the "Meals on Wheels" program. In response to this, the Alexandria Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS) and Senior Services of Alexandria are working together to ensure the continued delivery of meals to participating residents. For more information or to request assistance, individuals can contact the Division of Aging and Adult Services at 703-746-5999.

Furthermore, the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) is collaborating with affected food vendors to ensure that all temporary and repaired workspaces are permitted and can serve food safely as soon as possible. Those with questions about food safety can reach out to AHD's Environmental Health division at 703.746.4910.

The City of Alexandria would like to extend its gratitude to all first responders and community partners who have come together in response to this incident. Updates on the investigation and community impact will be provided as they become available.

In case individuals prefer communication in another language, free interpretation and translation services are available. They can reach out via email to LanguageAccess@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.3960.

The Alexandria Fire Department has successfully completed its firefighting operations after a major fire at a commercial strip warehouse on Wheeler Avenue. Over 100 firefighters from AFD and surrounding jurisdictions were involved in the operation. One firefighter sustained a minor injury but has been treated and released from the hospital. The building has been deemed unsafe for entry, and operations will resume to render it safe and continue the investigation. A regional investigation team, along with AFD units, remains on the scene. The investigation is expected to continue for several days. The fire has affected local businesses, including Jeffery's Catering, which is a key provider for the "Meals on Wheels" program. Efforts are being made to ensure the continued delivery of meals to residents. The Alexandria Health Department is also working with affected food vendors to ensure food safety. The City of Alexandria expresses its gratitude to all first responders and community partners involved in the incident. Translation and interpretation services are available for those who need them.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.alexandriava.gov/news-citywide/2024-01-03/alexandria-fire-department-completes-firefighting-operations-after