Fire investigation and cleanup underway in Virginia

The call came in Friday morning about smoke and flames. And it turned into a nearly 12-hour call. "But we were able to contain the fire to the building of origin," shared interim fire marshal Jake Keehl. "We feel fortunate to be able to get the job done in a manner that we were able to save the others from being damaged beyond repair."

Still, smoke and water damage to the surrounding stores are major challenges ahead.

Laura Collins, owner of Pep’s Bake Shop, was able to get inside for the first time on Monday. "I was glad to be able to walk inside, but frustrated because it’s going to be a long process," she said. But the support of many is helping. "It’s been wonderful. You wouldn’t believe how many people have reached out."

She said women from the county building called her on Friday to warn her the building next to hers was on fire. They remain focused on being able to make those famous cakes again. "We want to be open, because our customers are so important to us."

Yellow fire tape cordons off the area from Jue’s to New China Buffet. Domino’s Pizza had power back, and employees were busy cleaning up after the lack of power caused a mess with their freezer.

The cause remains under investigation.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.