Cause Of Electrical Fire In Bailey's Crossroads Identified

BAILEY'S CROSSROADS, VA—Investigators have determined the cause of the electrical fire involving a transformer near a Bailey's Crossroads high rise Monday. Over 1,000 people evacuated the 26-story residential high rise in the 3700 block of South George Mason Drive and sought shelter as officials assessed damages.

The fire started when hot metal works within the transformer vault welded, according to Fairfax County Fire and Rescue. This ignited the plastic wiring harnesses insulation and extended to the transformers. Two transformers need to be replaced. Damages to the transformers are estimated to be $44,590.

Units from Fairfax County, Alexandria and Arlington responded to the fire around 10 a.m. Monday. The transformer fire caused significant smoke to enter the high rise. A second alarm was requested to clear smoke and help residents evacuate. Residents were sheltered in an adjacent building. One person was taken to the hospital for an evaluation.

Despite smoke inside the building, there was no actual fire inside the high rise. The fire department says the blaze was contained to the transformer vault and mostly burned itself out.

Dominion Virginia Power shut off power to the building in response to the fire. The extensive damage to the electrical system caused individual units to be without electricity, heat or running water. There was no estimate on when power will be restored.

The Fairfax County Office of Emergency Management and Red Cross are assisting displaced residents. Residents were allowed to return for personal items but were encouraged to find overnight housing. The James Lee Community Center, 2855 Annandale Road, Falls Church, is open as a shelter for displaced residents.