Video: Drivers Witness South Alex Development Fire From Route 1

GROVETON, VA — Drivers on Richmond Highway were close witnesses of Saturday's massive four-alarm fire that destroyed some buildings at the South Alex development.

In a video seen on the Neighbors app, a driver recorded the huge cloud of smoke billowing from the Groveton development under construction at Richmond Highway and Kings Highway. As the driver gets closer, large flames could be seen erupting from the construction site.

The cause of the fire monetary extent of damages is not yet known. Fairfax County Fire and Rescue confirmed five buildings and 14 townhouses under construction were a total loss, and an additional 14 townhouses, four single-family homes, five apartment buildings, a commercial building and 28 vehicles were damaged. Two firefighters and one firefighter had minor injuries.

Watch the video from the Neighbors app below.

The South Alex project started in 2018 and would have been completed in 2021, according to Washington Business Journal. The mixed-use development was planned to offer 400 units, 41 townhouses, an Aldi grocery store and another 20,000 square feet of retail. Washington Business Journal reported a statement from developer Combined Properties saying the fire "destroyed our South Alex property" and the developer is "deeply committed to rebuilding and fulfilling our commitment to this neighborhood."

CBG Building Company, the construction company behind the South Alex project, tweeted a statement in response to the fire. "As we focus on securing the site and maintaining the safety of adjacent areas, we want to once again extend our gratitude to the many first responders from Fairfax County and other local jurisdictions who worked tirelessly in response to the fire at South Alex," the company tweeted. "We are thankful there were no serious injuries and are grateful for our community's generous outpouring of support as we move forward."

FULL COVERAGE: Four-Alarm Fire Destroys Parts Of South Alex Development: Update

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