Cat Perishes in Accidental Mount Vernon House Fire

Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department units responded to a house fire, Tuesday at approximately 10:55 p.m., in the Alexandria area of Fairfax County. The single-family house is located in the 6200 block of Driftwood Drive.

Firefighters encountered heavy smoke coming from the basement of the ranch-style home upon arrival. Firefighters conducted an aggressive fire attack and brought the fire under control in approximately 15 minutes. 

The single occupant was alerted by smoke and a sounding smoke alarm, called 911 and evacuated with his dog prior to units arriving on scene. A cat perished in the fire. The single occupant has been displaced. Red Cross assistance was offered but declined by the occupant.

Damage is estimated at $105,000.

According to fire investigators, the fire was accidental. An electrical panel in the basement caused the fire.