NORFOLK, Va. Fire Today — Emergency crews are responding to a reported fire at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, with details about the exact location and circumstances of the incident still developing.
At this time, the available information does not establish the precise source of the fire or whether it involves a university building, equipment or another location on campus. Firefighters are expected to assess the scene, identify the source of the incident and determine whether any continuing threat exists to students, faculty, staff or visitors.
A fire on a university campus can require a significant emergency response as crews work to locate the source, search affected areas and prevent smoke or flames from spreading. Students and staff near an affected area may be directed to evacuate or remain away from the scene while emergency operations continue.
There are currently no confirmed reports establishing the number of injuries associated with the reported ODU fire. The extent of any property damage also remains unconfirmed, and officials have not released a confirmed cause of the incident.
Smoke can remain hazardous even when flames are no longer visible. Students, employees and visitors in the area are urged to follow instructions from university officials, police and fire personnel, avoid smoke and stay clear of access routes being used by emergency vehicles.
Old Dominion University officials may provide additional information regarding building closures, class cancellations or changes to campus operations as the emergency response develops. Members of the university community should rely on official university and emergency communications for confirmed updates.
Firefighters may remain at the scene after any visible flames are extinguished to check for hidden fire, ventilate affected areas and determine whether buildings can safely be reoccupied. An investigation may follow to establish how the fire started once emergency operations are complete.
The situation remains developing, and further information is expected to clarify the location of the reported fire, whether anyone was injured, the extent of any damage and whether campus operations have been affected. Students, faculty, staff and visitors should avoid the affected area, follow evacuation instructions when issued and wait for authorities to confirm that any evacuated building is safe before returning.