CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – The fire at Jackson Via Elementary School on November 25 has been determined to be accidental following an investigation by the Charlottesville Fire Department (CFD), the City of Charlottesville, and Charlottesville City Schools. The fire, which began in the staff parking lot, involved four vehicles and spread to nearby grass and leaves. Investigators found that the fire started under a 2000 Lexus 300. Evidence indicated that heat from the car’s exhaust system ignited dry leaves accumulated in the parking area. Burn patterns, heat damage, and witness statements supported the conclusion that the fire was unintentional.
The Charlottesville Fire Department responded to the incident at approximately 7:30 a.m., quickly extinguishing the flames and addressing a fuel leak from the vehicles. The department’s Hazardous Materials Team prevented the fuel from entering storm drains, and cleanup efforts were coordinated with city staff and a private contractor. CFD emphasized the importance of keeping parking areas clear of dry leaves to prevent similar incidents, because heat from vehicle engines or catalytic converters can easily ignite debris.