Arson suspected in large Petersburg house fire, investigation ongoing
VENN
PETERSBURG, Va. (WRIC) -- An investigation is underway after a large house fire in Petersburg on Sunday afternoon.
On Sunday, March 29 at 4:44 p.m., Petersburg Fire Rescue & Emergency Service crews responded to reports of a structure fire with people inside on Jamestown Drive.
Once on the scene, crews found heavy smoke coming from a one-story house and flames in the back. Fire crews were able to control the house fire in less than 20 minutes, and after a search, it was reported that no one was in the house during the fire.
(Photo: Petersburg Fire Rescue & Emergency Services)
(Photo: Petersburg Fire Rescue & Emergency Services)
(Photo: Petersburg Fire Rescue & Emergency Services)
(Photo: Petersburg Fire Rescue & Emergency Services)
Dominion Energy was called to the scene to cut the power due to an arcing power line near the fire. A downed line also sparked a brush fire, but it was quickly extinguished by crews.
Police officers requested a fire marshal to the scene to determine the cause of the fire after initial reports suggested it may have been started by arson.
Community members are advised to stay away from the area as crews continue to work in the area.
