Fire at WV Division of Highways’ Office – 626 Depot St

2/12/2013 – Tuesday evening, around 7:30 p.m., Parkersburg firefighters were dispatched to a fire alarm at the Division of Highways’ office, located at 626 Depot Street. Fire crews quickly arrived from the downtown fire station and reported smoke coming from the structure.

Upon entry, they discovered a heating and cooling unit on fire. The fire was contained by the sprinkler system and firefighters further extinguished the remainder of the flames.

“The fire was contained to the room of origin, however, there was some smoke and significant water damage to the furnishings from the sprinkler system activation,” states Fire Chief Eric Taylor.  “Maintenance workers have already arrived to begin the cleanup and the sprinkler and alarm companies are in the process of getting the fire protection systems back online.”

Fire officials remained on the scene for approximately 90 minutes investigating the fire. The origin was determined to be a wall mounted heating and cooling unit, similar to the type found in a motel room, however, the cause and estimated dollar loss have yet to be determined. No injuries were reported.