DAYTON, VA (Rocktown Now) — A massive fire broke out Monday evening at a buggy repair shop in Dayton, drawing a swift and extensive response from approximately 20 area fire and rescue units.
The blaze ignited around 6 p.m. in the 100 block of Vista Lane, according to the Bridgewater Volunteer Fire Company. The structure was quickly engulfed, prompting a coordinated response from Rockingham County Fire and Rescue, Hose Company Number 4, Weyers Cave Fire Company, and the Harrisonburg Fire Department, alongside Bridgewater crews.
“There was a gentleman doing some woodworking and sanding, and a piece of the sandpaper on the belt sander tore and, we believe, went into the dust collector,” said Rockingham County Assistant Fire Marshall Tyler Jessup. “About 20 or 30 minutes later, he saw smoke. He went outside and saw that the second floor, which is where the dust collection ends up, was on fire.”
Despite their efforts, the building was declared a total loss. Firefighters worked for over three hours to bring the fire under control and clear the scene.
In a statement posted online, Bridgewater Fire expressed gratitude to community members who assisted with overhaul operations. They also cautioned nearby residents that the remains of the structure may continue to smolder and emit smoke for the next several days.
No injuries have been reported, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
