Three Occupants Displaced After Townhome Fire in Sterling

At approximately 7:38 p.m. on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, the Loudoun County Emergency Communications Center received multiple 9-1-1 calls for a reported structure fire in the 45800 block of Peach Oak Terrace in Sterling. Loudoun County Fire and Rescue (LCFR) units from Kincora, Ashburn, Sterling, and Moorefield, as well as Fairfax County, Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, and numerous command officers responded to the scene. Upon arrival, crews found a middle-of-the-row townhome with significant fire showing from the front of the structure. A Rapid Intervention Taskforce was subsequently requested to bring additional firefighting resources to the scene. Crews initiated a fire attack with multiple handlines, knocking down the bulk of the fire, which was contained in the garage, approximately ten minutes after arrival and moved inside the structure to check for extension and begin overhaul operations. 

The LCFR Fire Marshal’s Office investigation determined the fire was accidental, due to a mechanical malfunction in the engine compartment of a vehicle parked in the garage. Damages are estimated at $650,000. No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported. Two adults and one child were displaced and are receiving assistance from the American Red Cross. Smoke alarms were present and operated as designed. 

Community members are reminded about the importance of calling 9-1-1 immediately during an emergency incident, such as a house fire. A portable fire extinguisher is a great tool to save lives and property and can be used to put out fires contained in a small area until the fire department arrives. However, conditions can quickly change, and fire can spread rapidly, so it’s important for every household to have a home escape plan and working smoke alarms. It’s also important to remember to never go back inside the structure for any reason. If you think someone is still inside or if your pets are believed to be inside, tell firefighters where you think they are. The safety of the community is our top priority, and our first responders work around the clock to ensure that happens. Visit our website for additional resources, including fire prevention and life safety information and our free Smoke Alarm Assessment Program. Visit the National Fire Protection Association’s website to learn how to make a home fire escape plan. 

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