Morgantown Fire Department Responds to Third-Alarm Fire on Listravia Avenue

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. - At approximately 7:37 a.m. this morning, the Morgantown Fire Department was dispatched to a confirmed structure fire at 1996 Listravia Avenue. 

Firefighters arrived to find the majority of the building fully involved in fire, with strong winds making extinguishing efforts more difficult. A second, and then later third-alarm was dispatched. Power was lost to most of the Sabraton area as flames impinged on high-voltage lines. At approximately 10 a.m. the fire was brought under control.  

The cause of the fire is under investigation at this time. Investigators also believe flying embers were carried by the wind and started a nearby brush fire that burned approximately 2.5 acres. The brush fire was brought under control at approximately 9:55 a.m. Witnesses reported to investigators that unauthorized occupants had been recently observed entering and exiting the vacant building.  

The building was determined to be a total loss with an estimated damage of $100,000. It was also determined to be vacant and under condemnation prior to the fire. An adjacent house at 1988 Listravia received heat, water, and smoke damage estimated at $20,000.  Three vehicles and a travel camper parked on the street were also damaged. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters. 

Excavation equipment was brought in to demolish and remove the remaining parts of the structure that had collapsed. Fire companies from Brookhaven, Cheat Lake, Granville, Cool Springs, Clinton District, River Road, Star City, and the County Forest Fire Team were all dispatched to the brush fire. Monongalia EMS also responded to standby for possible medical aide. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the Morgantown Arson Hotline at 304-284-7486.

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