Fairfax County firefighters responded to a single-family house fire, last Tuesday, Oct. 16, around 6:35 p.m., at 14927 Lee Highway in Centreville. Firefighters encountered heavy smoke and fire coming from the rear and through the roof of the ranch-style home upon arrival. They fought the blaze from both inside and outside the house, but had to withdraw when a portion of the roof caved in.

Since the home was vacant, firefighters also faced boarded-up windows while attempting to gain access. It took firefighters approximately 50 minutes to bring the flames under control. The house was a complete loss, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.