Central Nova News

The Alexandria Fire Department has revealed that a recent fire at 4407 Wheeler Ave was accidental and electrical in nature, causing approximately $1.5 million in structural damage and an additional estimated $3.5 million in damage to the contents of all impacted businesses located in the commercial strip warehouse.

The incident was initially reported as a fire alarm around 9:20 p.m. on Tuesday, January 2. It quickly escalated to a 3-alarm fire, prompting over 100 firefighters from the Alexandria Fire Department and surrounding jurisdictions to respond. The fire attack was supported by personnel from the Arlington County and Fairfax County fire departments, as well as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the George Mason University and Fairfax City Fire Department Drone Team.

Over the course of three days, the Fire Marshal's Office conducted an origin and cause investigation with the help of the assisting departments. While the investigation was ongoing, firefighting efforts continued to address hot spots and extinguish fire debris. Investigators identified a room in the warehouse as the point of origin, where they also discovered several electrical components. The building's fire alarm system and smoke alarms were activated at the time of the incident.

"Among the businesses affected by the fire is Jeffery's Catering - a key provider for the Meals on Wheels program," said the spokesperson for the Alexandria Fire Department. "The owners have made the necessary arrangements to continue services in an alternative location."

Fortunately, no civilians were injured as a result of the fire. One firefighter sustained a minor injury but was treated and released the same day. However, the building itself has been condemned due to the fire and structural damage.

The property value saved is estimated to be $696,720.

For media inquiries, Senior Public Information Officer Raytevia Evans can be contacted at raytevia.evans@alexandriava.gov or (703) 746-5190.

This news release is also available at alexandriava.gov/go/5424.