Stafford Fire and Rescue tells us that at about 8:15 on Saturday night they received a call about a structure fire in the 700 block of Widewater Road, near the intersection of Decatur Road. The address was across the street from Station 3 (Widewater). The first unit arrived on scene just moments later, reporting fire and smoke from the exterior of a mixed-use structure, subdivided into apartments.
Upon further investigation, it was discovered the fire had extended into the structure, including the wall, attic and other void spaces. The fire was initially reported by a passerby, at the same time a juvenile in the building reported to an adult the smell of smoke.
Stafford Fire spokesperson Katie Brady says the unique construction of the building presented significant challenges. She says there many pockets for the fire to hide and extend. The fire was brought under control in approximately two hours.
Brady says there were five occupants and four animals in the residence at the time. None reported injuries. Seven people have been displaced as a result of the fire and are receiving assistance from the American Red Cross. Smoke alarms were present but did not sound at the time of the fire.
The fire is under investigation by the Stafford County Fire Marshal’s Office. Units were assisted on scene by the Quantico Fire & Emergency Services.
Photos courtesy Stafford Fire and Rescue
