The Loudoun County Fire and Rescue Fire Marshal’s Office (LCFR-FMO) investigation determined Saturday night’s house fire in the 20900 block of Deer Run Way was accidental in nature, caused by improperly discarded legal fireworks. Three occupants were assessed on scene and transported to an area hospital for further evaluation. The house of origin sustained significant damage, with two neighboring homes also affected. The total damages are estimated at $1,190,760.

Just after 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 4, 2026, the Loudoun County Emergency Communications Center began receiving 9-1-1 calls for a reported structure fire in Ashburn. Units from Moorefield, Ashburn, Leesburg, Kincora, and Lansdowne, as well as Fairfax County and multiple command and safety officers responded to the scene. Upon arrival, crews found a single-family home with heavy fire in the garage and through the roof. A Rapid Intervention Team Task Force was requested to bring additional firefighting resources to the scene. Crews initially began defensive operations, using large diameter hoselines and elevated master streams to attack the fire from outside the home and protect nearby homes. Once the bulk of the fire was extinguished, crews transitioned to interior operations. 

Three occupants and two dogs were displaced and are receiving assistance from the American Red Cross. Fortunately, smoke alarms were present in the home of origin and functioned as designed, notifying the residents of the fire. 

According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks started an estimated 34,079 fires in 2024, including 3,246 structure fires. The safest way to enjoy the Fourth of July, or other celebrations that use fireworks, is to attend a professionally coordinated fireworks show. If you do plan to use fireworks on your own, know the risks, proceed with caution, and follow these tips:

• Only use legal fireworks purchased from a permitted retail stand.
• Do not use illegal fireworks! Nothing that “shoots, explodes, or flames,” etc., is permitted for use. 
• Use fireworks outdoors, away from any homes, vegetation, or flammables. Keep a hose or water bucket nearby. 
• Place fireworks on stable ground, ensuring the device will not tip over. DO NOT light fireworks in your hand or container and never aim or throw fireworks at anyone. 
• Soak spent fireworks in water before discarding into a fire-proof container, outside, away from any vehicles or structures. 
• NEVER try to relight a dud or malfunctioning firework. 
• Contact the LCFR-FMO if you have questions or need to surrender or dispose of unused fireworks.

Visit our website for additional information related to fireworks safety: Loudoun.gov/fireworks. 

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