BOTETOURT COUNTY, Va. — Firefighters faced an unusual challenge Monday afternoon after a fire broke out inside a five-story coal bin at an industrial facility in the 6000 block of Catawba Road.
Fincastle Volunteer Fire Department crews were dispatched at approximately 1:30 p.m. to battle the blaze, which presented challenges because of the structure’s height, configuration and industrial design.
Fire Duty Officer Fire 4 established command while Wagon 4 crews deployed extended hose lines throughout the building to reach the fire in areas with limited vertical access.
Firefighters coordinated with plant personnel to develop a water supply using existing facility resources. Crews also deployed a thermal-imaging-equipped drone to survey the scene from above and monitored atmospheric conditions to help ensure safe operations.
Officials said coordination with the facility’s maintenance and safety teams was critical to the response.
The fire was contained to the coal bin, and authorities reported no threat to the surrounding community.
Responding units included Fincastle Volunteer Fire Department, Troutville Volunteer Fire Department and Botetourt County Department of Fire & EMS.
Original Facebook source: Open post
Source note: Star News TV · Oct 25, 2026 2:38 PM.
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