Press release from Fairfax County Fire and Rescue PIO
Photos from Arturo Soriano Jr.

Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department units responded to a residential apartment fire Tuesday, December 22, 2009, at approximately 9:10 p.m. in the Kingstowne area of Fairfax County. The apartment complex, The Elms at Kingstowne, is located at 6011 Rock Cliff Lane.

Firefighters encountered smoke from the front and rear area of the three-story, 24-unit complex upon arrival. The fire originated in a utility room in the basement of the building. There was minor fire extension to adjacent apartments. Firefighters brought the fire under control in approximately 30 minutes. There were no injuries.

Damage is estimated at $100,000.

According to fire investigators, the fire was accidental. Water leaking onto an electric panel in a ground floor utility room caused the fire. Occupants from 14 separate apartment units were not able to reoccupy their homes and have been displaced. A total of 11 adults and five children have been displaced. Red Cross is assisting those in need.