Bristol, Virginia, October 13, 2025
News Summary
An apartment fire in Bristol, Virginia, was reported to be caused by a lithium-ion battery malfunction. The fire department quickly responded, bringing the fire under control within minutes, and thankfully, no injuries occurred. The incident highlights the risks of lithium-ion batteries and the importance of using proper chargers. The American Red Cross is assisting displaced tenants with temporary shelter and necessities following the fire.
Bristol, Virginia – Apartment Fire Linked to Lithium-Ion Battery Malfunction
The Bristol Virginia Fire Department (BVFD) reported an apartment fire on Friday, believed to be caused by a lithium-ion battery malfunction. The incident took place at an apartment complex located on New Haven Lane Friday afternoon, prompting a swift response from local firefighters.
Upon arrival, BVFD crews observed moderate smoke visible from multiple windows of a two-story apartment building. They discovered one apartment had an active fire throughout the unit. The property manager and maintenance staff attempted to extinguish the fire themselves using portable extinguishers but were unsuccessful in their efforts.
BVFD firefighters managed to bring the fire under control within ten minutes, ensuring the safety of the surrounding residents. However, power was disconnected from at least two damaged apartments, while another unit sustained water and smoke damage due to the firefighting efforts.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the occupants or first responders involved in the incident. The fire is currently being treated as an accidental event linked directly to the battery malfunction, highlighting the potential risks associated with lithium-ion battery-operated devices.
In response to the incident, the local chapter of the American Red Cross was contacted to assist the displaced tenants, ensuring they have access to temporary shelter and essential necessities following the event.
The BVFD took this opportunity to remind community members about best practices when using lithium-ion battery-powered devices. They emphasized the importance of using proper chargers designed for specific products. This step is crucial in preventing overheating and potential fire hazards. Furthermore, the BVFD advised against utilizing knock-off chargers, as these can cause batteries to overheat and potentially explode, leading to dangerous situations similar to the incident on New Haven Lane.
This fire serves as a stark reminder of the hazards associated with lithium-ion battery devices and the importance of adhering to safety protocols to minimize risk and ensure the well-being of residents and emergency responders alike.
Key Takeaways
- Bristol Virginia Fire Department responded to an apartment fire caused by a lithium-ion battery malfunction.
- The fire occurred at an apartment complex on New Haven Lane Friday afternoon.
- Firefighters extinguished the fire within ten minutes and ensured no injuries occurred.
- The local chapter of the American Red Cross is assisting displaced tenants.
- Community members are reminded of best practices for using lithium-ion batteries, including the use of proper chargers.
FAQs
What caused the fire in the apartments in Bristol, Virginia?
The fire is being treated as accidental and linked to a lithium-ion battery malfunction.
Was anyone injured in the apartment fire?
No injuries to occupants or first responders were reported.
How quickly did the fire department extinguish the fire?
BVFD crews managed to extinguish the fire within ten minutes.
What assistance is being provided to displaced tenants?
The local chapter of the American Red Cross was contacted to assist displaced tenants.
What safety tips are being emphasized about lithium-ion batteries?
Community members were reminded of best practices when using lithium-ion battery-powered devices, including using proper chargers designed for specific products to prevent overheating and fire hazards.
What chargers should be avoided for lithium-ion batteries?
The BVFD advised against using knock-off chargers, as they can cause batteries to overheat and potentially explode.
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Additional Resources
- News Source: WJHL – Bristol VA Apartment Fire
- Wikipedia: Lithium-ion Battery
- News Source: Syracuse – Oswego County Landfill Fire
- Google Search: Oswego County Landfill Fire
- News Source: informNNY – Fire Prevention Week
- Google Scholar: Fire Prevention Week Lithium Batteries
- News Source: Levittown Now – Lithium-Ion Battery Fire
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lithium-Ion Battery Safety
- News Source: WJHL – Pet Rescued from House Fire in Bristol
- Google News: Bristol VA House Fire Pet Rescue
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
