Thousands displaced after transformer fire in Fairfax County

BAILEY'S CROSSROADS, Va. (FOX 5 DC) - A Monday morning transformer fire displaced thousands of residents at a Bailey's Crossroads condominium, Fairfax County Fire and Rescue confirmed.

The fire happened at the Skyline Plaza Tower in the 3700 block of South George Mason Drive and resulted in the evacuation of a 26-story condo complex. Fire officials say the fire caused extensive damage to the building's electrical system causing units to be without heat, electricity and running water.

Officials say residents are allowed to return to their units to retrieve essential items such as medication, pets and clothing prior to 10 p.m. They are being asked to find other options for overnight lodging.

The Red Cross and Fairfax County's Office of Emergency Management, along with the Health Department and Department of Family Services, are assisting displaced residents. Officials told FOX 5 Monday residents may be displaced from 24 to 48 hours to around a week.

The James Lee Rec Center at 2855 Annandale Road is open for residents in need of a place to stay.