Intense Blaze Engulfs Chesapeake Auto Shop

Firefighters battle two-alarm fire at long-standing repair business

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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A two-alarm fire broke out at A1 Auto, a Chesapeake auto repair shop that has been in business for over 25 years, on Sunday afternoon. Multiple fire units responded to the scene and are still working to bring the intense blaze under control, with crews having to withdraw from the building due to heavy fire and structural concerns.

Why it matters

Auto repair shops are essential community businesses, and this fire could have significant impacts on the shop's operations and the local economy if the damage is extensive. Fires at commercial properties also raise public safety concerns, especially in densely populated areas.

The details

The fire was reported at 1:05 p.m. at the A1 Auto repair shop located at 222 Liberty Street and 1512 16th Street in Chesapeake. Firefighters arrived on the scene at 1:08 p.m. and found heavy fire conditions, prompting them to withdraw from the building due to safety concerns about the structural stability. Crews are now fighting the fire from the outside with assistance from Norfolk Fire-Rescue.

  • The fire was reported at 1:05 p.m. on February 15, 2026.
  • Firefighters arrived on the scene at 1:08 p.m.

The players

A1 Auto

A Chesapeake auto repair shop that has been in business for over 25 years.

Chesapeake Fire Department

The local fire department responding to the two-alarm blaze.

Norfolk Fire-Rescue

The neighboring fire department providing mutual aid to help battle the intense fire.

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The takeaway

This fire highlights the importance of fire safety and preparedness for small businesses, as well as the need for strong mutual aid agreements between neighboring fire departments to respond effectively to major incidents.