Neighboring businesses react to possible arson after Petersburg house fire

PETERSBURG, Va. (WRIC) — An arson investigation is underway after a large house fire in Petersburg Sunday afternoon.

On Sunday, March 29, Petersburg Fire and Rescue Service crews said this happened around 4:44 p.m. near Jamestown and County Drive. Heavy smoke came from a one-story house with flames also spewing from the back.

Officials said there were also people inside but did not specify how many or if they sustained any damage from the flames.

The area is where not one, but two fires happened at the “American Inn Hotel” in 2025 and 2024.

Rock church secretary Mariam Gebhart whose church building is across the street said she didn’t know about it until the day after.

“We were here till 2 p.m., and we do have a security team that works in the church," she said. "We didn't leave till two or slightly after we made our way out and there was nobody on the property.

While the incident is unusual, Gebhart said she still feels ‘secure’ around the area.

“Petersburg does have some areas where things do happen from time to time. So it's not unusual, but you don't really hear a whole lot about arson around here,” Gebhart said. “Be aware of your surroundings is probably the main thing. But no reason to feel any kind of fear or apprehension.”

Officials said the incident is still under investigation.