structurefire photos on Flickr

Public Storage Fire in Sylmar by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 6:58AM on March 19, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 12600 block of W Foothill Blvd in Sylmar for a reported structure fire.

The first fire company arrived to find a two story, Public Storage complex with heavy smoke showing.

Over 80 firefighters extinguished the fire in 43 minutes with no injuries reported. The fire appears to have started on the 1st floor and extended up to the 2nd and through a common void space (similar to an attic) horizontally to additional units. A total of four units on the first floor and five units on the 2nd floor sustained heavy fire damage. A portion of the 2nd story floor burned through. The fire was in one, isolated building (they are not connected) in the complex of storage buildings. Firefighters quickly opened units and accessed the void space from the interior and the roof to stop the spread and save the rest of the units.

LAFD Incident: 031822-1434

Heavy Fire in Koreatown Building by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 8:22AM on January 30, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 300 block of N Vermont Ave in Koreatown. Firefighters took only 25 minutes to knock down heavy fire in the 3 story, vacant commercial building.

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Peter Sanders

LAFD Incident: 013019-0336

MAJOR EMERGENCY FIRE AT OLD GREYHOUND TERMINAL by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 6:34PM on Wednesday, August 30, 2017, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 630 S Los Angeles St. The poured-in-place concrete building, originally built in 1966, is the old Greyhound terminal. The 366,824 sq ft structure now comprises a row of commercial units with parking on the second floor. Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke pouring from multiple units on the 1st floor.

Due to the number of units affected and the extensive forcible entry required to gain access, additional units were requested, increasing the incident to a Greater Alarm status. As firefighters made entry into the units, they encountered heavy smoke but no visible fire. Each unit necessitated a separate fire attack due to the building construction and many were filled with baled goods, creating an additional challenge to locating the seat of the fire.

The stubborn nature and scope of the fire demanded significant resources to defend the remaining units (close to 20 total) while hunting down the seat of the fire, consquently additional fire companies were requested and the incident became a Major Emergency.

After one hour and 48 minutes, 124 firefighters under the command of Assistant Chief Timothy Ernst, achieved a knockdown on the fire with no injuries reported. A total of nine units were affected; 5 with fire damage and 4 with smoke damage only. An extensive overhaul of all units continued into the night.

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Harry Garvin

LAFD Incident: 083017-1465

Person Found Dead Inside Burning Boyle Heights Building by Los Angeles Fire Department

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BOYLE HEIGHTS - A person was found dead within an abandoned building in the 2500 block of East Whittier Boulevard, following a fierce firefight early April 11, 2020.

LAFD Incident 041120-0244

The Rhyolite Mercantile by SteveProsser

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I was sad to hear that it burned down last night from a suspected lightning strike. Rhyolite is an amazing place to visit and it won't look the same now.

LAFD Saves More Than 30 Businesses From Van Nuys Blaze by Los Angeles Fire Department

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VAN NUYS - At 2:44PM on October 12, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 7056 Van Nuys Boulevard. The first fire company arrived to find a one story, vacant commercial building (7,600 square feet built in 1957) well involved in fire.

After initially deploying an offensive fire attack, the incident commander quickly transitioned to a defensive operation due to the extent of fire involvement. As crews established hand lines, a collapse zone of 30’ was implemented at the front of the building due to concern about the stability of the façade. Approximately 20 minutes into the incident, an ‘Emergency Traffic’ radio alert was issued informing all on the fire ground of the full collapse of the façade. All firefighters were safely outside the collapse zone and continued their operation without delay.

The building to the north abutted the fire building while there was a small separation with the building to the south. Despite the close proximity of the two exposures and the heavy fire present, firefighters battled and succeeded in defending the structures from fire damage – saving over thirty businesses.

It was a long, extended operation due to the amount of fire and challenges in safely access all areas of the building. The RS3, Robotic Fire Fighting Vehicle was deployed to apply high volumes of water (master streams) more deeply into the building than was safely possible by firefighters. The combination of hand lines, ladder-pipes, RS3 and the team of over 85 firefighters, working under the command of Assistant Chief Corey Rose, fully extinguished the fire in over four hours.

One firefighter was transported to the hospital in fair condition with heat exhaustion. There were no other injuries reported.

Per protocol, LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section (ACTS) responded and is actively investigating the cause of the fire.

LAFD Incident 101222-1068

Business Fire Near Burbank Airport Summons Allied Agencies by Los Angeles Fire Department

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SUN VALLEY - The Los Angeles Fire Department encountered heavy fire conditions on arrival at a one-story commercial building at 7524 Clybourn Avenue on March 1, 2020. As the fire was at the City of Los Angeles border to Burbank Airport, the 90 LAFD personnel at scene were joined in automatic aid by airport and City of Burbank emergency responders in the nearly half-hour battle to fully extinguish the flames, which thankfully caused no injury.

LAFD Incident: 030120-0756

Sherman Oaks Hillside Home Heavily Damaged by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 1:40pm on 25 May, 2017 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 3800 block of N Sherwood Place in Sherman Oaks. It took 84 firefighters just under one hour to knockdown heavy fire in a 3 story, descending hillside home. The fire presented numerous challenges which firefighters overcame with no injuries.

LAFD Incident: 052517-0776

Venice Blaze Destroys Two Homes by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 10:44 PM on October 2, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 400 block of Carroll Canal in the Venice neighborhood of Los Angeles.

Firefighters arrived to find a three story home (under renovation/new construction) fully involved in fire and exposing adjacent homes.

Over 100 firefighters battled for one hour and 20 minutes to extinguish the blaze. Two homes (the address of origin and an adjacent home) were destroyed while three additional homes sustained damage to the eves from the ember cast.

LAFD Arson section responded, per protocol for an incident of this size, and the investigation is ongoing.

LAFD Incident 100222-1620

Chicken house fire in Delmar by LeafsHockeyFan

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Chicken house fire on Delmar Road in 74’s due. Delmar, Laurel, Hebron and SCEMS were on the initial dispatch. Command then requested a Tanker Task Force which brought additional units from Parsonsburg, Gumboro, Mardela Springs, Sharptown, Blades and Seaford.

Salisbury Truck 1 and Parsonsburg Tanker 608 provided coverage at Delmar fire station during the incident.

Valley Village Fire Contained to Detached Garage by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 2:25AM on April 26, 2017 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the 11600 block of W Margate St to find a detached garage with fire showing. 29 firefighters kept the non-injury fire contained to the garage and achieved knockdown in 11 mins.

LAFD Incident: 042617-0084

Commercial Fire by -IJSC-

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Allentown, Pennsylvania

Fire Rips Through Van Nuys Mobile Homes by Los Angeles Fire Department

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VAN NUYS - The Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a structure fire consuming two mobile homes and several vehicles at the 7600 block of North Balboa Boulevard at 5:22 AM on December 18, 2022. It took 42 LAFD firefighters just 42 minutes to access, confine and fully extinguish fire that destroyed two modular homes, in Space 57 (origin) and Space 56 to the east. Firefighters greatly limited damage to an exposed modular home to the west in Space 58, as well as nearby industrial buildings. No injuries reported. Fire cause under investigation.

LAFD Incident 121822-0335

Solar Panel Fire at Target by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 11:24AM on June 24, 2023 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 8900 block of N Balboa Bl in Northridge.

Firefighters arrived to find a large retail store (DBA Target) with smoke showing from the roof.

While fire attack ensuring the interior of the store and attic were clear, the truck company ascended to the roof to find a portion of a solar array on fire.

They conducted a drop bag operation to bring a handline aloft and quickly extinguished the fire with no injuries reported.

The fire did not penetrate the roof into the attic or the structure.

LAFD Incident 062423-0684

Quick Water Protects Nearby Commercial Structures From Flames by Los Angeles Fire Department

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NORTH HOLLYWOOD - LAFD responded to a structure fire at 12100 Sylvan St at 6:11 AM on November 5, 2020. A wooden structure in between two commercial buildings was engulfed in flames. Thirty-four firefighters extinguished the blaze in 19 minutes, sparing the nearby buildings on either side from becoming involved. No reported injuries. The cause of the fire is unknown.

LAFD Incident: 110520-0213

Early Morning Blaze Destroys North Hollywood Business by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 1:01AM on April 16, 2020, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 12000 block of W Victory Blvd in North Hollywood. The first arriving fire companies found a large, one, story commercial building with fire showing.

An immediate offensive operation ensued; fire attack worked to make entry into the building while the truck company headed to the roof for vertical ventilation. However, approximately 10 minutes into the incident, the lack of progress towards the seat of the fire and concern for the structural integrity of the structure caused the incident commander to order the transition to the defensive mode.

With all crews out of the building and off the roof, master streams were put into place. Ladder pipes and large hand lines poured copious amounts of water into the fire from the exterior. While the bulk of the fire was extinguished approximately one hour into the incident, difficult to reach pockets of fire remained and continued to flare up.

The 8,111 square foot building, built in 1957, was doing business as a ‘dollar store’ and had a significant fire load (amount of contents inside the structure). This environment presented challenges to the firefighters as they worked to safely reach the seat of the fire.

Nearly 100 firefighters, under the command of Assistant Chief Corey Rose, battled through the night. At 3:06AM (two hours and four minutes into the incident), the incident clock was turned off and firefighters continued working to address the remaining hot spots.

LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism section responded, per protocol for a fire of this size, to conduct the cause investigation and it remains an active investigation. No injuries were reported.

LAFD Incident: 041620-0039

House fire in Salisbury by LeafsHockeyFan

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9-18-19. Salisbury, Delmar and Hebron Fire Dept's responded for a house fire. Hebron Engine 507 later left the scene to stand-by at Salisbury Station 16 along with Mardela Springs Fire Dept.

Fire Rips Through Van Nuys Mobile Homes by Los Angeles Fire Department

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VAN NUYS - The Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a structure fire consuming two mobile homes and several vehicles at the 7600 block of North Balboa Boulevard at 5:22 AM on December 18, 2022. It took 42 LAFD firefighters just 42 minutes to access, confine and fully extinguish fire that destroyed two modular homes, in Space 57 (origin) and Space 56 to the east. Firefighters greatly limited damage to an exposed modular home to the west in Space 58, as well as nearby industrial buildings. No injuries reported. Fire cause under investigation.

LAFD Incident 121822-0335

Over 30 Businesses Saved in Van Nuys by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 2:44PM on October 12, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 7056 N Van Nuys Blvd in Van Nuys. The first fire company arrived to find a one story, vacant commercial building (7,600 square feet built in 1957) well involved in fire.

After initially deploying an offensive fire attack, the incident commander quickly transitioned to a defensive operation due to the extent of fire involvement. As crews established hand lines, a collapse zone of 30’ was implemented at the front of the building due to concern about the stability of the façade. Approximately 20 minutes into the incident, an ‘Emergency Traffic’ radio alert was issued informing all on the fire ground of the full collapse of the façade. All firefighters were safely outside the collapse zone and continued their operation without delay.

The building to the North (on the Bravo side) abutted the fire building while there was a small separation with the building to the South (on the Delta side). Despite the close proximity of the two exposures and the heavy fire present, firefighters battled and succeeded in defending the structures from fire damage – saving over thirty businesses.

It was a long, extended operation due to the amount of fire and challenges in safely access all areas of the building. The RS3, Robotic Fire Fighting Vehicle was deployed to apply high volumes of water (master streams) more deeply into the building than was safely possible by firefighters. The combination of hand lines, ladder-pipes, RS3 and the team of over 85 firefighters, working under the command of Assistant Chief Corey Rose, fully extinguished the fire in over four hours.

One firefighter was transported to the hospital in fair condition with heat exhaustion. There were no other injuries reported.

Per protocol, LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section (ACTS) responded and is actively investigating the cause of the fire.

LAFD Incident 101222-1068

Chicken house fire in Delmar by LeafsHockeyFan

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Chicken house fire on Delmar Road in 74’s due. Delmar, Laurel, Hebron and SCEMS were on the initial dispatch. Command then requested a Tanker Task Force which brought additional units from Parsonsburg, Gumboro, Mardela Springs, Sharptown, Blades and Seaford.

Salisbury Truck 1 and Parsonsburg Tanker 608 provided coverage at Delmar fire station during the incident.

Business Fire Near Burbank Airport Summons Allied Agencies by Los Angeles Fire Department

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SUN VALLEY - The Los Angeles Fire Department encountered heavy fire conditions on arrival at a one-story commercial building at 7524 Clybourn Avenue on March 1, 2020. As the fire was at the City of Los Angeles border to Burbank Airport, the 90 LAFD personnel at scene were joined in automatic aid by airport and City of Burbank emergency responders in the nearly half-hour battle to fully extinguish the flames, which thankfully caused no injury.

LAFD Incident: 030120-0756

Greater Alarm in Downtown LA by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 12:05PM on April 3, 2020 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 900 block of S Maple Ave in Downtown LA. 60 firefighters engaged in the fire fight and extinguished the flames in 37 minutes. Vertical ventilation was not conducted due to rooftop parking. Companies performed forcible entry to the fire unit and adjacent units, all containing textiles, advancing hose lines to the rear and preventing fire from spreading to other units. However, smoke did damage some goods inside of both units directly adjacent. Due to the size of the incident, LAFD Arson Sectionfire investigators responded for the cause investigation, which remains active. No injuries were reported by civilians or firefighters.

LAFD Incident: 040320-0597

Fire Sweeps Through Two Floors of WInnetka Office Building by Los Angeles Fire Department

WINNETKA - It took 33 Los Angeles Fire Department Firefighters just 28 minutes in offensive firefighting operations to access, confine and fully extinguish stubborn flames in a 300' x 50' two story office building that had fire showing from both floors on their arrival. The fire was confined within one first floor unit housing a massage business, as well as four conjoined units on the second floor, where clear evidence was noted of a marijuana grow operation. There were no injuries. The cause of the February 14, 2022 fire remains under investigation, while the legality of the marijuana grow operation will be determined by law enforcement officials.

LAFD Incident 021422-1374

Greater Alarm Commercial Fire in Eagle Rock by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 3:39PM on January 7, 2018 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 4537 N Eagle Rock Blvd to find a 75' x 250' vacant commercial building with heavy smoke showing. The property, surrounded by security fencing, required forcible entry to gain full access to the structure.

While truck companies made their way to the roof, interior fire attack encountered heavy smoke and heat upon entry. Minutes later, a partial roof collpase required the transition to a defensive operation. All crews exited safely and 2 1/2 handlines were put into place at exterior doors. The firefighters were able to gain an upperhand on the bulk of the fire and when all safety factors were considered, offensive operations resumed to reach the stubborn pockets of fire.

The structure, built in 1968, had a large, attached building (also vacant) which was defended from any fire damage. 98 firefighters, under the expert command of Assistant Chief Tim Ernst, fully extinguished the fire in just over one hour. Out of abundance of caution, residents from an exposed, large apartment building were evacuated but all were re-housed once knockdown was achieved with no remaining hazards.

LAFD 010718-1009

Commercial Fire in South Los Angeles by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 6:39PM on April 1, 2018 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 200 block of E Washington Blvd. Firefighters knocked down a fully involved commercial fire in 23 minutes with no injuries. LAFD Arson investigating the cause.

LAFD Incident: 040118-1072

Fatality Fire in Pico-Union by Los Angeles Fire Department

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The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 3:16 AM on January 10, 2018 to 1721 South New Hampshire Avenue in the Pico-Union area, where firefighters arrived quickly to find heavy flames showing from the second floor of a 2,149 square-foot two story residential triplex.

Sixty firefighters under the command of Battalion Chief Timothy Kelly made a fierce assault on the flames, discovering the remains of one person inside the premises. No other injuries were reported. The blaze was confined to the unit of fire origin and attic above, and fully extinguished in just 48 minutes.

Though one or more smoke alarms were present in the heavily damaged home, their functional status at the time of the blaze could not be immediately determined. No obvious factors were noted that could impede the egress of occupants. The 116 year-old residence was not equipped with optional residential fire sprinklers.

A positive identification of the deceased person, as well as the cause, time and manner their death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner.

While the cause of the fire remains under active investigation, it has been determined suspicious in nature

LAFD Incident 011018-0131

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Erik Scott

Hours-Long Fire Suppression Effort Saves Neighboring Businesses by Los Angeles Fire Department

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SHADOW HILLS - The Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a Major Emergency Structure Fire early Wednesday morning, where a large blaze involved a commercial building and several vehicles.

One-hundred eleven LAFD Firefighters responded to the 10900 block of West Randall Street beginning at 2:31 AM on Wednesday, November 30, 2022, where a large commercial building showed flames shooting through the roof. The fire consumed multiple nearby vehicles, vegetation and debris, and threatened several buildings. Firefighters established heavy streams from the exterior of the building (defensive operations), including aerial ladder pipes. Firefighters flowed copious amounts of water to quench the intense heat fueled by a heavy load of combustibles inside the structure, labeled as a party rental warehouse.

The building sustained heavy damage under hours of intense heat exposure, making it dangerous for firefighters to make entry, which eventually led the roof to collapse. LAFD's robotic firefighting unit, Thermite RS3, was dispatched to make entry by remote control to allow more penetrative hose stream access without unnecessarily putting firefighters at risk. After many hours of consistent suppression efforts under the command of Assistant Chief Guy Tomlinson, firefighters have controlled the flames (although an official "Knockdown" was not called due to smoldering hot spots beneath the rubble, which firefighters will continue to pursue). The long and persistent efforts of the firefighters on scene spared all neighboring businesses from becoming involved, protecting them from damage.

There were no reported injuries. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

LAFD Incident 102222-1156

House fire in Salisbury by LeafsHockeyFan

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9-18-19. Salisbury, Delmar and Hebron Fire Dept's responded for a house fire. Hebron Engine 507 later left the scene to stand-by at Salisbury Station 16 along with Mardela Springs Fire Dept.

Sun Valley Fire Destroys Vacant Supermarket by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 3:11AM on July 22, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 8025 N Vineland Ave in Sun Valley. Two Los Angeles Police Department officers on patrol saw a rising smoke plume and located the fire to find it raging. They radioed in the location and went to check the doors to see if anyone was inside. The 82,000 square foot structure, built in 1958, was vacant and boarded up so they safely retreated to await the fire department.

When the first fire companies arrived, they found heavy fire at the back of the building had extended forward. The incident commander quickly implemented a defensive operation with crews on all four sides of the structure. Truck companies deployed ladder pipes and engine companies put large diameter hand lines in place. Over 100 firefighters battled the fire for 95 minutes before Assistant Chief John Drake declared a knockdown.

Due to roof collapse, the building was filled with debris and prevented firefighters from conducting a visual search for any potential victims. Human Remain Detection K9 teams responded and made their way up, over and through the detritus to provide a more thorough search of the area. There were no victims located and no injuries reported to firefighters or civilians.

The LAFD Tractor Company utilized the RS3 Robotic Firefighting Vehicle to safely reach pockets of fire remaining in areas too unstable for firefighter-staffed hand lines. They also used an excavator and skid steer with grapple bucket to pull down unstable sections of the building (for safety) and overhaul the large debris piles.

Due to the size of the incident, the LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section responded. After completing their investigation, the official cause is 'undetermined'.

LAFD Incident: 072221-0162

Hollywood Commercial Fire Kills One by Los Angeles Fire Department

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HOLLYWOOD - Fire burned through a two-story concrete industrial building on Thursday, May 19, 2022, killing one person.

Seventy-eight firefighters responded to the 6600 block of West Lexington Avenue at 5:42 PM to find a two-story commercial building with smoke showing. There was an abundance of small individual recording studios inside, creating a very compartmentalized layout, which was extremely challenging to navigate and crawl through in zero visibility. Additionally, the studios had sound deadening thick walls, extra insulation, double drywall, and thick windows. While this design was intended to keep the sound from escaping, it also excelled at keeping the smoke and heat from escaping. Firefighters inside took a beating during a very hot and intense battle, but were relentless and extinguished the flames in 51 minutes.

During the fire fight, two patients were found with smoke-related respiratory symptoms. Firefighter-paramedics treated them on scene, and both declined transport. Tragically, during their systematic interior search, firefighters discovered one person deceased in the structure. Human Remains Detection K9s were called to search the area and, thankfully, did not find any other victims.

After the flames were extinguished, firefighters discovered marijuana upstairs, which appeared to be a grow operation. LAFD's Fire Prevention Bureau was notified and Fire Inspectors from the Cannabis Unit responded to review previous records, inspect the building, help determine if this was legal, and (in a joint effort with Fire Investigators) determine if it contributed to the cause of the fire. These investigations remain active (currently no conclusions have been made).

LAFD Incident 051922-1214

DTLA Major Fire Photo by Rick McClure 2 by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 6:32PM, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to 815 S Central Av to find a 6,000 square-foot one story, L-shaped commercial building with heavy fire showing through the roof.

Conditions quickly dictated a transition to defensive firefighting operations and firefighters rapidly employed ladder pipes, portable monitors and 2 ½ inch hand lines, attacking the fire from all angles.

The open building housed multiple vendors and contained large, bulky storage which created a heavy fire load, driving the intense flames. A large quantity of chili peppers burning in the structure added an irritant to the smoke; yet another factor for the crews to face. While the bulk of the fire was contained in just over an hour, the fire extended into the attic, camping out in locations difficult to reach with the exterior water application.

Over 190 firefighters, led by Deputy Chief Daren Palacios, waged battle for nearly two hours before gaining the upper hand. Firefighters contained the flames to the unit of origin and protected adjacent businesses from harm.

Once the bulk of the fire was extinguished, demobilization began and some units were released. Firefighters remained on the incident throughout the evening to continue addressing hot spots and ensure the safety of the community.

LAFD Incident 031217-1087

©Photo by Rick McClure

Major Emergency Blaze Consumes Building by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 7:48PM on November 25, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 1820 E 48th Place in the Central-Alameda area. The address, site of a Greater Alarm fire two nights prior, included four large, adjoining buildings which housed multiple businesses. Heavy fire was showing from one building, already through the roof upon LAFD arrival.

Truck companies deployed ladder pipes and engine companies flowed wagon batteries while establishing large diameter hand lines. Forcible entry was required to open all the rolling steel doors and give firefighters access to the blaze from the exterior.

An entrenched battle continued through the night with 115 firefighters, under the command of Assistant Chief Kristina Kepner, working aggressively to defend the adjoining structures. Their efforts prevented the fire from extending and protected numerous businesses.

LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section had an open investigation into the cause of the fire at this address on November 23, 2021 and were on scene to conduct the cause investigation into this fire as well, which remains ongoing.

LAFD Incident: 112521-1480

Fire Destroys Trailer in Shadow Hills by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 4:03PM on November 13, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 8600 block of W La Tuna Canyon Road for a reported structure fire. The first arriving fire companies found an outside fire, well involved travel trailer, exposing a single family dwelling. While firefighters conducted an offensive fire attack, additional crews sequestered a number of exotic animals on the property to ensure they were safe. A knockdown was achieved in 21 minutes. Two adult patients (one male and one female) were evaluated on scene and later declined LAFD transport. The cause is under investigation.

LAFD Incident 111321-1111

Sun Valley Fire Destroys Vacant Supermarket by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 3:11AM on July 22, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 8025 N Vineland Ave in Sun Valley. Two Los Angeles Police Department officers on patrol saw a rising smoke plume and located the fire to find it raging. They radioed in the location and went to check the doors to see if anyone was inside. The 82,000 square foot structure, built in 1958, was vacant and boarded up so they safely retreated to await the fire department.

When the first fire companies arrived, they found heavy fire at the back of the building had extended forward. The incident commander quickly implemented a defensive operation with crews on all four sides of the structure. Truck companies deployed ladder pipes and engine companies put large diameter hand lines in place. Over 100 firefighters battled the fire for 95 minutes before Assistant Chief John Drake declared a knockdown.

Due to roof collapse, the building was filled with debris and prevented firefighters from conducting a visual search for any potential victims. Human Remain Detection K9 teams responded and made their way up, over and through the detritus to provide a more thorough search of the area. There were no victims located and no injuries reported to firefighters or civilians.

The LAFD Tractor Company utilized the RS3 Robotic Firefighting Vehicle to safely reach pockets of fire remaining in areas too unstable for firefighter-staffed hand lines. They also used an excavator and skid steer with grapple bucket to pull down unstable sections of the building (for safety) and overhaul the large debris piles.

Due to the size of the incident, the LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section responded. After completing their investigation, the official cause is 'undetermined'.

LAFD Incident: 072221-0162

Greater Alarm Fire in Koreatown by Los Angeles Fire Department

At 12:08AM on May 15, 2020 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 200 block of S Vermont Av in Koreatown. Firefighters arrived to find a commercial strip mall (mixed one and two story) with heavy fire showing from the 2nd story on one end of the mall. A defensive operation ensued and 71 firefighters fully extinguished the fire in 45 minutes. The facade of the building collapsed due to loss of structural integrity from a previous burn. LAFD Arson section is conducting the cause investigation. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

LAFD Incident: 051520-0004

Abandoned North Hollywood Restaurant Goes Up In Flames by Los Angeles Fire Department

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NORTH HOLLYWOOD - On the morning of October 26, 2022, the Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned to a Greater Alarm Structure Fire at 6261 North Laurel Canyon Boulevard in North Hollywood.

The first arriving firefighters discovered heavy, pressurized smoke coming from a 100' x 100' vacant one-story commercial building. Knowing this structure was the site of a previous burn, the Incident Commander quickly directed all companies to fight the fire from the exterior only, referred to as "Defensive." As the fire rapidly developed and flames burst through the roof, several additional task forces were requested, along with specialty companies (i.e. USAR, RS3, Heavy Equipment, etc.) and Fire-cause Investigators.

With no reports of occupants inside, firefighters patiently applied large amounts of water from heavy streams, including ladder pipes and large-diameter hand lines. The building sustained substantial collapse, further speaking to the wisdom of defensive operations being used on this incident.

Over 100 LAFD personnel were able to extinguish the flames in two hours and five minutes, without injury. LAFD's remote-control firefighting robot, RS3, was called in to do work in excessively dangerous areas, and LAFD heavy equipment (excavators) will be used to uncover smoldering debris. Smoke may be seen in the area for an extended period of time during this work.

Arson Investigators were called to the scene to attempt to determine the fire's cause. They arrived and received word of ten other fires (including rubbish, autos, etc.) within less than a mile of the incident, that will be included in the scope of their investigation, which remains active. LAFD brought in two Fast Response Vehicles to provide a mobile solution and rapid extinguishment of the smaller fires, while keeping the fire engines on the large fire or available to respond to new emergencies. Two individuals have been detained for questioning. One was released and one was booked for "arson of property" (Penal Code 451-D). LAFD will release further information as it becomes available.

LAFD Incident 102622-0278

Smoke Alarms Save the Residents of a Bel Air Home by Los Angeles Fire Department

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BEL AIR- 107 LAFD Firefighters extinguished the large fire inside a 7,500 sq ft home causing two firefighters to be transported to local hospitals. The occupied residence suffered significant damage, however due to firefighters relentless efforts they stopped the flames from spreading to the adjacent pool house, garage, and nearby brush. Fortunately the residents (homeowner, children, and nanny) were alerted by functional smoke alarms and self evacuated unharmed.

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Harry Garvin

LAFD Incident: 020818-1311

Greater Alarm Fire in North Hollywood by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 5:09PM on May 28, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 6800 block of N Troost Av for a reported structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find a one story commercial building with fire showing. Crews immediately initiated an offensive operation with interior fire attack and truck companies on the roof performing vertical ventilation.

Approximately 20 minutes into the incident, a partial roof collapse at the front of the building triggered the transition to a defensive operation. Over 80 firefighters ultimately extinguished the blaze in one hour and 46 minutes with no injuries reported. They contained the fire to the building of origin, defended the exposed buildings from damage. LAFD Arson responded for the investigation per protocol.

LAFD Incident 052822-1075

Major Emergency Fire in East Hollywood by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 7:36PM on November 22, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 1200 N Vermont Ave in East Hollywood.

Firefighters arrived to find a 5,546 square foot vacant medical clinic (mixed one and two story) with fire showing from the second floor. Crews quickly established hand lines and made entry on the first floor but encountered heavy fire throughout the area. With fire burning above them and the roof deemed unsafe for vertical ventilation, the incident transitioned to a defensive operation.

Over 115 firefighters, under the command of Assistant Chief Timothy Ernst, used heavy streams both from ladder pipes and hand lines to fully extinguish the fire in one hour and 51 minutes.

Despite initial bystander reports, no occupants were found and no injuries reported. The cause of the fire is under active investigation by the LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section (ACTS).

LAFD Incident 112219-1405

Valley Village Fire Contained to Detached Garage by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 2:25AM on April 26, 2017 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the 11600 block of W Margate St to find a detached garage with fire showing. 29 firefighters kept the non-injury fire contained to the garage and achieved knockdown in 11 mins.

LAFD Incident: 042617-0084

Greater Alarm Fire in Koreatown by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 12:08AM on May 15, 2020 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 200 block of S Vermont Av in Koreatown. Firefighters arrived to find a commercial strip mall (mixed one and two story) with heavy fire showing from the 2nd story on one end of the mall. A defensive operation ensued and 71 firefighters fully extinguished the fire in 45 minutes. The facade of the building collapsed due to loss of structural integrity from a previous burn. LAFD Arson section is conducting the cause investigation. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

LAFD Incident: 051520-0004

Major Emergency Structure Fire in East Hollywood by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 7:36PM on November 22, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 1200 N Vermont Ave in East Hollywood.

Firefighters arrived to find a 5,546 square foot vacant medical clinic (mixed one and two story) with fire showing from the second floor. Crews quickly established hand lines and made entry on the first floor but encountered heavy fire throughout the area. With fire burning above them and the roof deemed unsafe for vertical ventilation, the incident transitioned to a defensive operation.

Over 115 firefighters, under the command of Assistant Chief Timothy Ernst, used heavy streams both from ladder pipes and hand lines to fully extinguish the fire in one hour and 51 minutes.

Despite initial bystander reports, no occupants were found and no injuries reported. The cause of the fire is under active investigation by the LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section (ACTS).

LAFD Incident 112219-1405

North Hollywood Blaze Hits Multiple Businesses by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 5:33AM on June 10, 2019, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 5241 N Lankershim Blvd. With a large plume of smoke visible while enroute, firefighters knew it would be difficult fight. The 94-year old building, approximately 150' x 75', had heavy fire and smoke showing upon arrival of the fire companies. Firefighters initiated an offensive attack with companies going both to the roof and inside to battle the flames. Twenty minutes later, as the fire evolved, it became too dangerous to remain inside the structure and the operation transitioned to defensive mode.

Truck companies initiated ladder pipe operations while Engine companies used both the wagon battery and heavy stream hand-lines. Thousands of gallons of water streamed into the fire, abating the bulk of the flames. However, the challenged remained reaching the remaining fire in pockets not accessible from the exterior. Two hours and 16 minutes later, 113 firefighters, under the guidance of Incident Commander Assistant Chief Stephen Gutierrez, achieved knockdown.

Despite the challenging conditions, seven businesses were saved by the relentless efforts of Your LAFD firefighters. The large building housed a dozen separate businesses and firefighters limited the damage to five at the epicenter of the blaze. Ultimately, the five businesses suffering varying levels of fire, smoke and/or water damage were Greenhouse, Tokyo Delve's Sushi, Chili Rollz, District Pub and Joe Coffehouse.

The scene remained active throughout the morning while firefighters performed overhaul operations and the LAFD Arson Section conducted the cause investigation of this non-injury fire.

LAFD Incident 061019-0252

Structure Fire Eagle 42s by Bernie Deyo Photography

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Fire fighters from Eagle, Boise, Meridian, Star and Middleton battle a fully involved 4,000 sqft hillside mansion in Eagle Idaho just outside of Boise.

Sun Valley Fire Destroys Vacant Supermarket by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 3:11AM on July 22, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 8025 N Vineland Ave in Sun Valley. Two Los Angeles Police Department officers on patrol saw a rising smoke plume and located the fire to find it raging. They radioed in the location and went to check the doors to see if anyone was inside. The 82,000 square foot structure, built in 1958, was vacant and boarded up so they safely retreated to await the fire department.

When the first fire companies arrived, they found heavy fire at the back of the building had extended forward. The incident commander quickly implemented a defensive operation with crews on all four sides of the structure. Truck companies deployed ladder pipes and engine companies put large diameter hand lines in place. Over 100 firefighters battled the fire for 95 minutes before Assistant Chief John Drake declared a knockdown.

Due to roof collapse, the building was filled with debris and prevented firefighters from conducting a visual search for any potential victims. Human Remain Detection K9 teams responded and made their way up, over and through the detritus to provide a more thorough search of the area. There were no victims located and no injuries reported to firefighters or civilians.

The LAFD Tractor Company utilized the RS3 Robotic Firefighting Vehicle to safely reach pockets of fire remaining in areas too unstable for firefighter-staffed hand lines. They also used an excavator and skid steer with grapple bucket to pull down unstable sections of the building (for safety) and overhaul the large debris piles.

Due to the size of the incident, the LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section responded. After completing their investigation, the official cause is 'undetermined'.

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Cody Weireter

LAFD Incident: 072221-0162

Boyle Heights Greater Alarm Structure Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 11:39PM on September 28, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 1600 block of E 1st St for a reported structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find a one story commercial building, approximately 50' x 100' with heavy fire showing on at least one side. After an initial offensive fire attack met a deep seated fire and difficulty making entry, safety considerations required the transition to a defensive operation. Ultimately, over 100 firefighters fully extinguished the fire in just over two hours with no injuries reported. LAFD Arson section is actively investigating the cause of the fire.

LAFD Incident 092821-1686

Commercial Fire in South Los Angeles by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 6:39PM on April 1, 2018 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 200 block of E Washington Blvd. Firefighters knocked down a fully involved commercial fire in 23 minutes with no injuries. LAFD Arson investigating the cause.

LAFD Incident: 040118-1072

Quick Work Stops DTLA Hotel Fire From Spreading by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 2:34AM on December 3, 2017 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 200 block of E 5th St in Downtown Los Angeles to find a 3 story hotel building with fire in one unit on the top floor. The quick and aggressive work of 102 firefighters resulted in a knockdown achieved in 25 minutes and no injuries requiring transport to the hospital. This Greater Alarm fire could have resulted in tragedy but instead was contained to one unit.

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Harry Garvin

LAFD Incident: 120317-0162

Major Emergency Structure Fire in Woodland Hills by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 9:10PM on July 3, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 6000 block of N De Soto Av for a reported structure fire.

The first arriving fire company found a large, one story commercial (vacant) building with heavy fire showing through the roof.

Firefighters immediately initiated a defensive operation and quickly determined the entire building was fully involved in fire.

With multiple ladder pipes flowing and large diameter hand lines deployed around the structure, firefighters battled for over an hour to quell the blaze. Their efforts ensure the neighboring buildings were not damaged. There were no injuries reported and there is an on-going cause investigation.

LAFD Incident 070322-1566

Downtown Los Angeles Commercial Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 8:42AM on March 10, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 720 S Ceres Ave in Downtown Los Angeles. The first arriving fire company found a one story commercial building with smoke showing.

As firefighters worked to gain entry into the building, the conditions worsened and they faced thick, black smoke, severely limiting visibility. Vertical ventilation conducted by the truck company opened up the roof to find heavy, pressurized smoke emanating from holes cut towards the back of the building. This smoke turned to fire and given the distance from where firefighters entered and the location of the fire combined with the amount of fire present, the incident commander, Assistant Chief Wade White, made the call to move the operation into a defensive mode.

All crews exited the building and came off the roof to rapidly deploy master streams. With multiple ladder pipes and large diameter hand lines flowing, firefighters quickly made progress as the white smoke in the sky dissipated.

The incident then transitioned back into the offensive mode and once the ladder pipes were shut down, an interior fire attack resumed, extinguishing the remaining pockets of fire.

Over 90 firefighters achieved a knockdown in 40 minutes with no injuries reported. The 4,536sq foot, nearly 100 year old building, housed an artist’s studio/metal fabrication business and was ‘red-tagged’ (deemed unsafe to occupy) by the LA Department of Building and Safety.

The LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section (ACTS) responded per protocol and is actively investigating the cause of the fire.

Use of This Photo Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: Gary Apodaca

LAFD Incident: 031022-0396

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