Leesburg Fire That Caused $1.2M In Damage Ruled Accidental

LEESBURG, VA — Loudoun County fire officials have ruled that a fire that caused $1.2 million damage to a commercial building in Leesburg over the weekend was accidental due to the kitchen area being unattended while someone was cooking.

No one was injured in the fire, which was reported on West Market Street in Leesburg at 11:20 a.m. Saturday. The fire was under control in 30 minutes after firefighters arrived to find smoke and fire coming from the rear of the building, fire officials reported this week. Damage was caused to both the structure and the content of the building, officials said.

After the Loudoun County Fire Marshal’s Office deemed the cause to be accidental, Fire Chief Keith Johnson warned residents and restaurant owners to be mindful while cooking.

Johnson said it is important to remain in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food and that if the need arises to leave the kitchen, to make sure to turn off the stove.

“Remember, watch what you heat,” Johnson said.

Further fire safety information can be found here, or residents may call the county’s public education manager at 703-737-8600.