Transformer Fire Causes Evacuation at Pepco Northeast DC Facility

A large fire broke out at Pepco's Benning Road service center in Northeast Washington, D.C., caused by a transformer catching fire and an oil leak, prompting the evacuation of plant workers and an adjacent building as a precaution. Firefighters, including foam and hazmat units, responded to the blaze and worked with Pepco crews to ensure the area was de-energized, with no injuries reported. The fire produced billowing black smoke and led to road closures around the 3400 block of Benning Road NE, including ramps on DC-295, to ensure public safety. Despite the severity of the fire, widespread power outages were largely avoided, with fewer than five customers near the plant experiencing outages, while unrelated outages occurred elsewhere in the city. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, and Pepco stated that emergency crews are on site addressing the issue as quickly and safely as possible. The incident remains under close observation with updates expected as the situation develops.