On the evening of January 21 there was a structure fire on the 2800 block of Anderson Highway. One resident lived in the house. He made it out of the house safely.

When the fire department arrived, heavy fire was spotted in 2 out of 3 of the rooms in the house. Once it was determined that all residents were out of the house, firefighters started to take action. Lines were stretched and dump tanks were put down.

They established a water source at the Dunkin Donuts on Anderson Highway. The firefighters entered the house to make an interior attack. However debris started falling so the team had to take a defensive position instead. Over 75,000 gallons of water were moved.

VDOT was called in to spread salt on the roads and assist with traffic detours because of the fire. Additionally, the Metro Richmond Flying Squad was dispatched to help with rehab and warming firefighters. This was the first incident that the Powhatan Fire Department had to use these services. That section of Anderson Highway was closed all that evening and well into the next day.

The Powhatan community has come together to help the man who was displaced from his home. He had no insurance and his house is unlivable. Donations can be dropped off at Jimmy’s Carpet at 3211 Anderson Highway. They are accepting gift cards for Walmart and Food Lion, clothing, shoes, toiletries, and storage containers. As well as cash through Venmo or Cash app.

Many donations have already been made and him and his family are very grateful.