An early-morning apartment fire last week caused an estimated $250,000 damage and took the life of a 74-year-old Fairfax man. According to the City of Fairfax Fire Department, firefighters were able to remove Bill Patton from his bedroom but unable to revive him.
The blaze began shortly before 3 a.m., last Tuesday, June 7. Someone living in the apartment above Patton’s, in the 10100 block of Mosby Woods Drive, called the fire department at 2:49 a.m. to report it. Fire officials say the caller was alerted to the fire by a smoke alarm sounding in Patton’s bedroom, where the fire started.
Initially, four fire engines, two ladder trucks and a medic unit raced to the scene, along with a battalion chief and an EMS supervisor – about 26 people. Then additional units were dispatched, as well, for a total of some 40 people altogether responding.
The fire department says “improperly discarded cigarettes” in the victim’s bedroom caused the fire. Fire officials are also reminding City residents of the importance of having working smoke alarms in their homes. They will provide them to anyone needing one; call 703-385-7830.
Those who knew Patton were saddened by his loss, including Fairfax Mayor Scott Silverthorne, who mentioned him at the June 7 City Council meeting. He also thanked the firefighters for all their hard work.
Mourning Patton, as well, was City Councilman Jeff Greenfield. “I've known Bill for over 25 years, first as a friend and then a supporter,” said Greenfield. “Bill proudly served our country in the Marine Corps and as a past commander of American Legion Post 177. Bill was a consistent voter, including in the May 3 general election. The City of Fairfax lost a great member of the community with Bill’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his children.”
A June 10 statement on Post 177’s Facebook page says, “It is with great sadness that we have lost Past Post 177 Commander Bill Patton. The American Legion and Post 177 was dear to his heart. Bill will be remembered by many. May he rest in peace.”