MANASSAS, Va. (WUSA9) -- Firefighters experienced a close call when crews rushed to an apartment building in Manassas on Monday at 10:57 p.m. At first, firefighters tried to douse the flames from inside the building in the 11200 block of Lady Jane Loop, but part of the third floor roof collapsed on their heads. They were wearing protective equipment, according to officials.
The firefighters sent a Mayday signal, but all managed to evacuate without getting hurt.
One resident was sent to the hospital with smoke inhalation, and two firefighters were taken to the hospital for observation.
Fire department officials say they are uncertain of the exact number of residents forced out of their homes due to the fire. Red Cross has assisted with putting 15 people in hotels, according to a fire department spokesperson.
An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway.
The preliminary damage estimate is $300,000, say fire officials.
