Submitted by R. Wayne Baber, CFI
Assistant Chief, Operations
Henrico Division of Fire

At 5:12 PM on July 29, 2010 Henrico Engines 13, 9, 8, Squad 13, Truck 22 and District Chief 3 were dispatched for a reported roof fire at an unknown address behind the Short Pump Hilton Hotel. While responding Engine 13 noticed a column of smoke which appeared to originate from “The Reflections at West Creek” Apartments. A thunderstorm was producing heavy rain, high winds and lightning at the time of the call.

Henrico Engine 13 arrived on scene to find fire showing from roof on the C/D corner of a three- story garden style apartment building. The initial dispatch information stated the building was being evacuated and Engine 13 did not receive any reports of people trapped on their arrival. Engine 13 stretched a 300 foot 1.75 inch hose- line to the third floor and attacked the attic fire through the ceiling of a third floor apartment unit. Squad 13 performed a primary search of the third floor which was negative for victims.

Additional units were requested bringing Engines 15, 21, Fire/Medic 13, Attack Pumper 9, Truck 12 and the PIO to the fire. All units aggressively fought the fire minimizing overall damage. The Public Information Officer reported that bystanders stated that they saw the building get struck by lightning and began to smell smoke shortly after. The apartment building had 24 living units in it.

The unit directly under area of origin received heavy damage. There was smoke damage and ceiling damage to the adjacent apartment from overhaul operations. Other units received some water damage. No injuries were reported. Damaged was estimated at $ 255,000.

Two other significant fires occurred during this same storm which taxed the resources of the Henrico Division of Fire.

(the photos were taken during the thunderstorm and may not be print quality – the first photo may be the best of the lot)