Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department units responded to a townhouse fire, at approximately 11:55 p.m., Friday, June 8, in the Herndon area of Fairfax County. The single- family home is located at 2542 Peter Jefferson Lane, in the McNair Farms West subdivision.
Firefighters reported heavy smoke and fire coming from the rear and extending up the eaves to the roof area of the three-story end unit townhouse upon arrival. The Incident Commander struck a second alarm bringing approximately 60 firefighters to the incident scene. Firefighters conducted an interior and exterior fire attack and brought the fire under control in approximately 15 minutes. Despite knocking the fire down quickly, fire had already spread to the roof and attic of the adjacent townhouse causing major damage to the roof, attic, and top floor. All the occupants escaped prior to firefighters arriving on scene. Both townhouses are uninhabitable. Two adults and two children from each of the units have been displaced. Red Cross is assisting both families. There were no injuries.
The home is a total loss. Damage to the townhouse at 2540 Peter Jefferson Lane is estimated at $40,000.
According to fire investigators, the fire was accidental. Improperly discarded smoking materials near the rear of the home caused the fire.