The fire started about 1:50 p.m. at the three story, Southport Apartments with fire on all floors. First arriving fire units found heavy fire on all three floors and immediately asked for a second alarm.
Around 2:12 p.m., all the firefighters were evacuated from the building. One firefighter was taken to a hospital for evaluation following a minor injury, said a fire official on the scene.
Shortly after, a third and then a fourth alarm was sounded by fire officials.
One hundred and thirty firefighters fought the fire, which was brought under control at 4:24 p.m.
Edsall Road was closed between Van Dorn Street and Yoakum Parkway.
Alexandria City Schools said students who were supposed to be dropped off at the site were returned to their schools and parents were called.
Some public transportation was also rerouted due to the fire.
The occupants of the building were able to escape without injury. One firefighter was treated for a minor injury and transported to a nearby hospital. The occupants of 14 apartments were displaced by the fire.
Initial damage is estimated at $3,000,000, say fire officials.
The cause remains under investigation.
Republished with permission of WUSA-TV
