Firefighter and residents injured in apartment fire in Alexandria

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — An evacuation is underway at a high-rise apartment building located in Alexandria.

Firefighters with the Alexandria Fire Department responded to the 6300 block of Stevenson Avenue Monday afternoon for reports of smoke odor in the building.

When crews arrived, they found a large fire located on the 12th floor of the apartment building. While crews were working to extinguish the fire, a disorientated firefighter issued a Mayday call. 

Team members were able to locate multiple firefighters and remove them from the building. This is a 15-story building,  crews had to go down a few floors because the smoke was so bad. The Fire Chief is worried about strong winds playing a factor in the strength of the fire. 

Crews reported multiple injuries from residents inside of the building as well. 

The fire has since been contained and is under control, according to officials. The cause of the fire is still unknown at this time.

According to Fire Chief Hernandez, three firefighters are being treated for burns or smoke inhalation. Multiple residents were evaluated on the scene and released. Two residents were taken to a hospital as a precaution. 

Officials say, residents on the 12th floor likely won't be able to return Monday night.