Bristol Virginia Fire Department

On the way back from a call, a lemonade stand was spotted and it could not be resisted.

Our department is pleased to donate 5-inch supply hose to a local Volunteer Fire Department. This donation will help enhance their firefighting capabilities, and strengthen our shared commitment to protecting the communities we serve.

Bristol Virginia Fire Department Responds to House Fire on Vermont Ave.

The Bristol Virginia Fire Department was dispatched at 3:09 a.m. this morning for a house fire at 916 Vermont Ave., Bristol, Virginia. The house was unoccupied at the time fire crews arrived on the scene.
Firefighters encountered heavy smoke and flames in the front of the house and were able to quickly extinguish the fire under challenging conditions. The fire scene remains active as an investigation is currently underway. No injuries have been reported at this time.
The Bristol Virginia Fire Department extends its gratitude to the Bristol Tennessee Fire Department, Bristol, VA Police Department, Bristol Life Saving Crew, and BVU for their rapid response and assistance during this emergency.

D. Stacey Farley
Fire Chief - Emergency Management Coordinator

Recognizing Battalion Chief Brian Witcher for 30 years of dedicated service to the Bristol, VA Fire Department. Thank You Chief Witcher!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Preliminary Media Release – Vehicle Crash Investigation

BRISTOL, VA – May 29, 2026 - At approximately 2:06 p.m., officers with the Bristol Virginia Police Department, Bristol Virginia Fire Department and Bristol Lifesaving Crew responded to a reported single-vehicle crash at 1171 Commonwealth Avenue.

Preliminary investigation indicates the vehicle was traveling southbound on 381 when it veered across the roadway, crossed the center median, and entered the northbound lanes near the intersection at Commonwealth Avenue. The vehicle then continued through a parking lot before striking a building located at 1171 Commonwealth Avenue. Following the collision, the vehicle caught fire.

Several good Samaritans assisted in removing the driver and a child passenger from the vehicle prior to the arrival of emergency personnel.

The adult male driver was transported by Virginia State Police Med-Flight to a regional hospital for treatment. The child passenger was evaluated at the scene by EMS personnel and was later released to family members.

The investigation remains ongoing, and the condition of the driver is unknown at this time.

Anyone who witnessed the crash or has information related to the incident is asked to contact the Bristol Virginia Police Department at (276) 645-7400.

Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

Congratulations to Firefighter Ray for his succesfull completion of Hazardous Materials Technician course!

Our condolences to Joe's Family, and the Bristol Life Saving Crew

A devoted life member of the Bristol Life Saving Crew and a friend to all, he gave so many years of his life serving as a dedicated crew member. He was always there—showing up not just with donuts, but with kindness, laughter, and a heart for every first responder he met. Those small acts meant more than words can ever express. His presence brought comfort, his generosity brought smiles, and his impact will be felt for years to come. He will never be forgotten, Joe Minor will be deeply, deeply missed.

Today Fire Chief Farley, along with Police Chief Ashbrook and City Manager Tamrya Spradlin, recognized Dispatcher Kitty Galliher for her outstanding service on April 23rd. Her dedication to the Bristol Virginia Police and Fire Departments does not go unnoticed. She has served the city for 37 years to date. Thanks to her, and all dispatchers, who truly are the First Responders!