Cause of Hillsboro fire determined to be accidental

STAFF REPORT

Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023

A Hillsboro fire on Dec. 27 was determined to be accidental, according to the Loudoun County Fire and Rescue Fire Marshal’s Office.

The report concluded that a contractor working in the building “inadvertently” started the fire when a spark from a saw ignited insulation inside the wall.

Damages to the home on Charles Town Pike are estimated at approximately $619,350 and two adults have been displaced and are staying locally with family.

The home is located in a former historic church that was built in the 1850s, according to the Short Hill Historical Society.

The church closed in 1971 and was used previously as an antique shop, before it was converted into a private residence.

Fire safety advocates recommend that when using tools that have the potential to create sparks, it is advisable to have a fire extinguisher readily available and to consider monitoring the area even after work is complete, according to the press release.