MANASSAS, Va. — City of Manassas fire officials have released additional information about the Signal Hill Road fire, confirming that approximately 30 residents were displaced and no civilians or first responders were injured.
The fire affected a 12-unit apartment building. Power was shut off to the entire building, and approximately six apartments sustained fire, smoke or water damage, according to the City of Manassas Fire and Rescue.
The fire appears to have been accidental, although the Fire Marshal’s investigation remains underway.
The incident was first reported early Aug. 25, when the Manassas City Police Department closed Signal Hill Road from Richmond Avenue to Station Crossing Way because of the structure fire.
Seven City of Manassas Fire and Rescue units responded. Manassas Park Fire and Rescue provided approximately three additional units, while Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue responded with approximately four.
The Manassas City Police Department, City Building Inspector’s Office and American Red Cross also assisted.
Fire officials said approximately 30 residents were displaced the night of the fire. It was not immediately known whether any residents were later allowed to return following a more detailed assessment by building officials.
The investigation remains open.
The Manassas Journal will continue to update this story as additional information becomes available.
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Previously Reported Tues, Aug 25
An overnight fire at Signal Hill Apartments in Manassas displaced residents and caused extensive smoke and water damage, but no residents or firefighters were injured, according to Manassas City Fire and Rescue.
What’s happening
Fire crews were called to Signal Hill Apartments at about 12:45 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 25.
According to information provided to the Manassas Journal by Public Information Officer Alexis Williams, the first fire unit arrived 3 minutes and 59 seconds after being dispatched.
Fire officials determined the fire was accidental.
Manassas City Fire and Rescue was assisted by Manassas Park and Prince William County.
Why it matters
Officials reported extensive smoke and water damage.
Because of the amount of water needed to extinguish the fire, power was shut off to the entire building.
The American Red Cross responded and provided assistance to residents who were displaced.
Officials reported no injuries to residents or firefighters.
What we saw
Manassas Journal photos taken Tuesday morning show visible fire damage to the building marked 8709, including heavy charring along part of the upper level and roofline and damage around upper-floor windows.
Yellow tape remained around portions of the building, and crews and service vehicles were present at the property Tuesday morning.
What remains unclear
Officials have not yet provided a confirmed number of apartments affected or residents displaced.
The Manassas Journal will update this story when additional information is confirmed.
This is a developing story.
