structurefire photos on Flickr

Arleta Home Destroyed by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 8:26AM on December 22, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 14200 block of W Judd St for a reported structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find a two story, single family dwelling with the 2nd floor well involved in fire. Initial reports on scene indicated one occupant was missing.

Crews immediately initiated an offensive operation in the "rescue profile" (due to the possibility of a victim inside the structure). The fire was isolated to the 2nd floor and extended into the attic. Firefighters conducted a primary and secondary search on the 1st floor and confirmed it was clear. As firefighters continued to battle the heavy fire and intense heat bearing down on them from above, occupants of the residence confirmed they found the missing person.

The 42 firefighters, operating under the command of Battalion Chief Albert Ward, fully extinguished the fire in 39 minutes with no damage to the neighboring buildings.

One occupant was transported in serious condition with facial/respiratory burns and two firefighters were transported for evaluation of non-life threatening burn injuries.

The home was initially reported as a 'sober living facility' but later confirmed not to be a licensed facility of any type. The legality of the construction and occupancy (at least 11 people) is under investigation. LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism section is actively investigation the cause of the fire.

LAFD Incident 122222-0346

Early Morning Blaze in Downtown LA by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 4:29AM on August 14, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to 2501 S Main Street for a reported structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find a 50‘ x 100’ commercial building, with fire showing on all sides.

The well entrenched fire required a defensive operation from the start. Firefighters deployed master streams to include ladder pipes and large diameter hand lines. As the roof collapsed on the 66 year old structure, crews continued to safely apply copious amounts of water from the exterior.

Once Incident Commander, Assistant Chief Kristina Kepner, deemed the blaze under control and conditions safe, she directed a return to an offensive operation so firefighters could reach the isolated pockets of fire and ensure full extinguishment.

115 firefighters waged the battle for one hour and 29 minutes before a complete knockdown was determined. Their tenacious efforts ensured the neighboring businesses were undamaged and no injuries were reported.

The LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section is actively investigating the cause per protocol for an incident of this scale.

LAFD Incident 081419-0160

Sherman Way IC LAFD by Bernie Deyo Photography

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Fire Fighters from the Los Angees City Fire department battle a greater alarm structure fire at Sherman Way & Desoto in the SFV.

LAFD Holds Blaze To Three North Hollywood Commercial Structures by Los Angeles Fire Department

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NORTH HOLLYWOOD - LAFD firefighters battled a blaze in three adjacent commercial buildings, fending off electrical hazards and building collapse, to extinguish the inferno in just over 3 hours.

A pile of oily rags were the culprit of a massive commercial structure fire on Lankershim Blvd just before midnight on November 1, 2019. Painting-related chemicals provided for a chemical reaction with the rags they were saturating and produced enough heat for them to spontaneously combust. Firefighters arrived to find fire blowing through the roof of the commercial building. Crews made access to enter the building and began cutting holes in the roof to ventilate the structure. As fire blew out of every hold that was cut, despite their continuous attempts to retreat to a less involved area to continue cutting, the decision was made to pull companies off the roof and out of the structure, and assume a defensive posture. The heavy fire load in the business quickly grew the fire, which spread to two more nearby commercial buildings.

The combined 40,000 square-foot fireball burned for over 3 hours, while 127 firefighters worked the perimeter to "surround and drown" the fire. Firefighters navigated around electrical wires down, and roof and wall collapses during the fight. By nearly 3:00 AM, the flames waved the white flag and gave up, succumbing to the three hour tour of large-diameter hose streams raining down, guided by spotters on the radio with a better vantage point. Ladder pipes, portable monitors, and 2-1/2-inch hand lines were all used in the deluge. The emergency was mitigated, but the work was not done.

Firefighters stayed on scene to overhaul the buildings and the debris pile for days following, while the pile continued to smoke. Plastics and other materials had melted throughout the pile, creating a water-resistant layer that protected hot spots under the surface from hose streams. LAFD tractor companies came out at first light the next morning to turn over the pile. A track loader (Caterpillar 953) and a wheel loader (Caterpillar IT28), driven by LAFD Heavy Equipment Operators, worked for days to continue overhauling the buildings and turn over debris, allowing firefighters to continue to put water on the materials to cool it off. Companies from all over the city rotated shifts during the days after, on "fire watch" to ensure nothing flared up and to continue to apply water while the tractors operated.

Fire investigators from the LAFD Arson/Counter-Terrorism Section obtained video evidence that enabled them to make the determination that the cause was accidental, due to spontaneous combustion. Near the end of the video from an internal surveillance camera, rags with painting-related chemicals on them (left on a bench) can be seen spontaneously combusting due to a chemical reaction. This is a sobering reminder to properly dispose of oily and chemical-soaked rags properly. Fortunately, no one was hurt during this Major Emergency fire.

LAFD Incident: 110119-1860

Flames Destroy Hollywood Home by Los Angeles Fire Department

HOLLYWOOD - The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned to the 1400 block of North Martel Avenue at 4:42 PM on November 3, 2022 for a structure fire involving a one-story single family home. Firefighters navigated around downed wires on approach, where flames consumed the home. It took 42 firefighters 43 minutes to access, confine, and extinguish the flames, without injury. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

LAFD Incident 110322-1304

Winnetka Garage Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

At 3:56AM on October 10, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 8600 block of N Keokuk Ave in Winnetka.

Firefighters arrived to find a one story, single family dwelling with a detached garage and the garage was well involved in fire.

One adult male was evaluated for possible smoke inhalation and declined LAFD transport.

Due to excessive storage conditions, it was an extended operation ensuring all pockets of fire were fully extinguished. Knockdown was officially called at just over two hours.

LAFD Incident 101022-0201

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.

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo

LAFD Incident: 112521-1480

Sherman Oaks Strip Mall Destroyed by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 10:48PM on January 12, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 15000 block of W Ventura Bl in Sherman Oaks. The first arriving crews found a small strip mall with heavy smoke showing.

After an initial offensive attack, the incident transitioned to defensive and 75 firefighters extinguished the fire in one hour at 20 minutes with no injuries reported.

LAFD Incident 011222-1891

Multiple Businesses Saved in Downtown LA by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 5:35PM, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 1400 block of South Long Beach Avenue in Downtown Los Angeles. With fire showing through the roof of a one story commercial building (doing business as I-Catcher Graphics), the responding companies immediately entered a defensive mode and requested additional resources.

Within minutes, the rear portion of the roof collapsed and an emergency traffic radio transmission warned of 'wires down', creating additional hazards to negotiate. With adjoining businesses on three sides of the fire building, firefighters focused both on extinguishing the blaze and defending the exposed structures. Crews deployed heavy streams through appliances (portable monitor and ladder pipes) and large diameter hand lines. Firefighters on the ground applied copious amounts of water through the front while additional firefighters positioned on the roof tops of the uninvolved, exposed buildings targeted the hard to reach areas.

Over 140 firefighters, under the leadership of Incident Commander Assistant Chief Carlos Calvillo, achieved 'knockdown' in one hour and 22 minutes with no injuries reported.

The well-orchestrated and doggedly fought battle successfully defended the fire from extending into any other buildings, saving an untold amount of money and property.

LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section (ACTS) is actively investigating the cause while the dollar loss is being tabulated.

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo - Branden Silverman

LAFD Incident: 102518-1223

Mill fire by Swede1969

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Winnetka Structure Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

At 1:06PM on April 16, 2023 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 20100 block of W Gilmore St for a reported structure fire.

Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire showing from an attached carport which extended into the back of a single family dwelling.

44 firefighters extinguished the fire in 28 minutes and defended to two adjacent residences from damage.

LAFD Incident 041623-0833

20061218_FIRE - 2812 Moore Crossing_294 by Harry Rowe

Structure Fire - 2812 Moore Crossing

West LA Fire Damages Three Units by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 5:05PM on February 6, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in teh 10600 block of W Santa Monica Bl in West Los Angeles. Firefighters arrived to find a two-story building (offices over parking) with fire in one unit that spread to the attic. The fire ultimately affected at least three units with fire and smoke damage. Thankfully, the offices did not appear to be occupied at the time (upon arrival, firefighters searched and found no one). Firefighters began with a transitional attack, utilizing hose lines from the outside first then moving inside, as crews on the roof provided vertical ventilation allowing smoke and heated gases to escape. It took 30 firefighters 26 minutes to extinguish the flames. There were no reported injuries.

LAFD Incident: 020622-1230

Venice Blaze Destroys Two Homes by Los Angeles Fire Department

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

LAFD Confines Fire to Outside Shed by Los Angeles Fire Department

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SYLMAR - At 5:52 PM on September 6, 2021, LAFD responded to the 15200 block of West La Valle Street, where firefighters quickly extinguished flames consuming a detached shed behind a residence.

LAFD Incident 090521-1279

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.

Use of This Photo Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD

LAFD Incident: 051520-0004

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

Lake Balboa Structure Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 9:15PM on July 28, 2018 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the 7700 block of N Oak Park Ave in #LakeBalboa for a reported structure fire. Firefighters found two sheds well involved in fire and quickly achieved knockdown with no injuries.

LAFD Incident 0702818-1511

Third Street Fire in Downtown Los Angeles by Los Angeles Fire Department

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES - The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 1:50 AM on June 8, 2021 to the 200 block of East 3rd Street in Downtown Los Angeles, where firefighters arrived quickly to find a century-old commercial building engulfed in flames.

One hundred-fifty firefighters under the command of Assistant Chief Ernst confined the fire to a 200' x 50' three-story commercial building, saving nearby multi-story residential structures. Firefighters battled for over three hours to knock down the bulk of the flames. The structural integrity of the building was too compromised for firefighters to enter and finish extinguishment. Heavy machinery was brought in to move debris and uncover the many remaining hot spots. Firefighters stayed for most of the day to monitor the smoldering debris and continue to apply water when possible.

There were no reported injuries to firefighters or civilians.

Volunteers from the American Red Cross assisted unhoused persons whose tents were destroyed by fire, while Inspectors from the City's Department of Building & Safety examined the fire building to determine its structural integrity and potential for repair. Monetary loss from the fire is still being tabulated.

LAFD Fire Investigators have concluded their investigation and the cause will remain "undetermined." Evidence confirmed that the fire began inside the structure and is not related to the individuals in tents outside the structure. Due to the compromised structural integrity of the fire unit and partial building collapse in the probable area of ignition, investigators were unable to determine anything further.

LAFD Incident: 060821-0089

Heavy Fire in Sherman Oaks Home by Los Angeles Fire Department

At 11:48PM on December 30, 2020 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 15000 block of W Weddington St for a reported structure fire. Firefighters found heavy fire showing from a one story, single family dwelling with two additional homes exposed to the flames. 26 firefighters safely extinguished the blaze in 32 minutes, defended the adjacent homes from damage.

LAFD Incident: 123020-1865

Studio City Residential Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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STUDIO CITY - At 2:44 PM on September 5, 2021, LAFD responded to the 4400 block of Kraft Avenue to find a single family home with fire through the roof of an attached storage room to the rear. Thirty-two firefighters extinguished the flames in 27 minutes. No reported injuries.

LAFD Incident 090521-0998

Early Morning Blaze in Sherman Oaks by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 2:03AM, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the 13500 block of W Huston St in Sherman Oaks for a reported structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find a two story home under construction well involved with fire. The fire extended to the attic of an adjacent duplex. Both structures extinguished in just 35 minutes with 66 firefighters and no injuries reported.

LAFD Incident 07117-0101

LAFD Limits Westlake Inferno to Two Abandoned Buildings by Los Angeles Fire Department

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WESTLAKE - More than 160 Los Angeles Firefighters battled a major emergency fire involving several structures in the 600 block of South Bonnie Brae Street early April 27, 2017. Though two long abandoned buildings were destroyed, LAFD crews prevented serious damage or injury at both an adjacent convalescent hospital and law library. © Photo by Mike Meadows

LAFD Incident: 042717-0067

Firefighters Evacuate Businesses and Residences While Fighting Downtown Blaze by Los Angeles Fire Department

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DOWNTOWN - Los Angeles City Firefighters battled a Downtown structure fire, which began as a large outside rubbish fire which spread to several businesses in a row of commercial buildings, that had occupied residential units across the second floor.

Firefighters responded to the Flower District of Downtown Los Angeles at 3:12 PM on June 22, 2023, to find heavy fire involving outside storage in the rear behind a long 2-story building, with residential units over a row of commercials, with heavy fire showing. The Incident Commander called for waves of additional firefighters, and placed companies in all involved units on the first floor, second floor, roof, and outside to the rear.

The fire appeared to have originated as an exterior fire to the rear, with flames rapidly spreading inside the first floor commercial space, and threatening to burn more units horizontally. Firefighters assisted with evacuations, and performed a rapid and systematic search of all units, and halted the horizontal spread. Fortunately, no victims were trapped.

Ultimately, it took 148 firefighters one hour and thirty-five minutes to extinguish the blaze. The fire unit of origin was a venue rental business, who loaned out supplies for

weddings, and social events, therefore there was a heavy fuel load inside that fueled the fire.

As always, we mourn the loss of the approximately four commercial units downstairs and four residential units directly above suffered damaged, but remain thankful that this incident did not end up being significantly worse. Red Cross responded to assist approximately 30 residents who were displaced. Thankfully, only one person (a 28-year-old female) was transported to the hospital in fair condition, and a second (a 50-year-old male) was evaluated and declined transport (both had symptoms of smoke inhalation). Arson investigators responded to determine fire origin, per protocol.

LAFD Photo by Gary Apodaca

LAFD Incident 062223-1024

Firefighters Evacuate Businesses and Residences While Fighting Downtown Blaze by Los Angeles Fire Department

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DOWNTOWN - Los Angeles City Firefighters battled a Downtown structure fire, which began as a large outside rubbish fire which spread to several businesses in a row of commercial buildings, that had occupied residential units across the second floor.

Firefighters responded to the Flower District of Downtown Los Angeles at 3:12 PM on June 22, 2023, to find heavy fire involving outside storage in the rear behind a long 2-story building, with residential units over a row of commercials, with heavy fire showing. The Incident Commander called for waves of additional firefighters, and placed companies in all involved units on the first floor, second floor, roof, and outside to the rear.

The fire appeared to have originated as an exterior fire to the rear, with flames rapidly spreading inside the first floor commercial space, and threatening to burn more units horizontally. Firefighters assisted with evacuations, and performed a rapid and systematic search of all units, and halted the horizontal spread. Fortunately, no victims were trapped.

Ultimately, it took 148 firefighters one hour and thirty-five minutes to extinguish the blaze. The fire unit of origin was a venue rental business, who loaned out supplies for

weddings, and social events, therefore there was a heavy fuel load inside that fueled the fire.

As always, we mourn the loss of the approximately four commercial units downstairs and four residential units directly above suffered damaged, but remain thankful that this incident did not end up being significantly worse. Red Cross responded to assist approximately 30 residents who were displaced. Thankfully, only one person (a 28-year-old female) was transported to the hospital in fair condition, and a second (a 50-year-old male) was evaluated and declined transport (both had symptoms of smoke inhalation). Arson investigators responded to determine fire origin, per protocol.

LAFD Photo by Gary Apodaca

LAFD Incident 062223-1024

Fatality Fire in Broadway-Manchester by Los Angeles Fire Department

At 12:17AM on June 21, 2023 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at the 11300 block of S Main St in Broadway-Manchester.

The first arriving fire company found a 60' x 80' metal clad, commercial building well involved in fire. Firefighters initiated a defensive operation and extinguished the fire in 38 minutes.

While conducting the primary search, they located an adult male inside the building who was sadly beyond medical help and Firefighter/Paramedics determined him deceased on scene. LAPD and LAFD Arson Section responded for the investigation per protocol for a fatality

LAFD Incident 062123-0012

LAFD Confines Fire to Outside Shed by Los Angeles Fire Department

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SYLMAR - At 5:52 PM on September 6, 2021, LAFD responded to the 15200 block of West La Valle Street, where firefighters quickly extinguished flames consuming a detached shed behind a residence.

LAFD Incident 090521-1279

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

Sherman Oaks Strip Mall Destroyed by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 10:48PM on January 12, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 15000 block of W Ventura Bl in Sherman Oaks. The first arriving crews found a small strip mall with heavy smoke showing.

After an initial offensive attack, the incident transitioned to defensive and 75 firefighters extinguished the fire in one hour at 20 minutes with no injuries reported.

LAFD Incident 011222-1891

High Rise Fire Sends Two to Hospital by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 12:37PM the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a structure fire at the Sheraton Hotel at 10600 W Universal Place. Firefighters ascended to the 9th floor to find a fire in one room being held in check by sprinklers. They extinguished the fire and conducted a search, finding an adult male employee in the adjacent room. The floor was under construction with no guests in place. The patient transported in grave condition and one male firefighter transported in fair/serious condition with non-traumatic illness.

LAFD Incident 083017-0830

Photo by: LAFD David Ortiz

Northridge Rubbish Fire Spreads to Vegetation and Structures by Los Angeles Fire Department

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NORTHRIDGE - LAFD firefighters were summoned to 17357 Chase St at 6:20 P.M. on Thursday, April 30, 2020, for a reported rubbish fire. Crews arrived to find that the fire had spread through grass and trees into a garage and an out building. The railways that passed behind the properties was shut down, as 34 firefighters took 41 minutes to extinguish all of the flames. There were no reported injuries.

LAFD Incident 042920-1078

LAFD Extinguishes House Fire in Sun Valley by Los Angeles Fire Department

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SUN VALLEY - Your Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned to 8730 N Bradley Avenue in Sun Valley at 11:53 P.M. on March 9, 2020, to find a one-story single family home with fire in the living space and extending into the attic. Thirty-one firefighters extinguished the fire in twenty minutes, keeping the fire from spreading to nearby homes, while avoiding arcing wires down in the street near a fire engine. There were no reported injuries. Cause and dollar loss TBD.

LAFD Incident 030920-1681

Leander, TX Police Tahoe by CenTexPhoto

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San Pedro Fire Prevented from Spreading by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 2:31PM on January 19, 2021 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 1300 block of W O'Farrell St in San Pedro for a reported structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find a two story, single family dwelling with a well involved attic fire and extension to the 2nd floor. 29 firefighters extinguished the fire in 29 minutes and prevented it from damaging the adjacent home.

LAFD Incident: 011921-0968

Koreatown Structure Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

At 6:12PM on September 19, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 3900 block of W 1st St in Koreatown. Firefighters arrived to find a detached garage fully engulfed in flames. 40 firefighters took 23 minutes to fully extinguish the fire. A nearby utility pole was exposed to flames, but all adjacent properties were protected from the blaze. There were no reported injuries.

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Chris Conkle

LAFD Incident: 091919-1301

LAFD Battles Greater Alarm Fire in Fashion District by Los Angeles Fire Department

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LOS ANGELES - At 4:19AM on July 11, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 1220 South Wall Street in the downtown Los Angeles Fashion DIstrict, LAFD crews arrived quickly to find a 50’ x 100’ row of businesses with heavy smoke showing. The 6,900 square foot building, built in 1924, presented challenges to responders in reaching the fire. After approximately 20 minutes of working to locate the seat of the blaze while it continued to rage, the conditions became too precarious for the offensive operation to continue. Incident Commander, Battalion Chief Michael Castillo, coordinated a swift transition to defensive operations, with all firefighters safely withdrawing from the interior and the roof of the heavily involved structure, as multiple ladder pipes and large diameter hand lines were put into place, This dedicated effort to defend the two attached buildings on either side of the fire unit paid off, as there was no fire extension into those structures.

102 firefighters achieved full extinguishment of the fire in one hour and 49 minutes with no injuries reported. The three units in the main building suffered varying levels of damage with the central unit being most heavily affected. Pursuant of protocol, the LAFD Arson / Counter-Terrorism Section is managing the on-going investigation. © Photo by Mike Meadows

LAFD Incident: 071119-0138

Studio City Residential Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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STUDIO CITY - At 2:44 PM on September 5, 2021, LAFD responded to the 4400 block of Kraft Avenue to find a single family home with fire through the roof of an attached storage room to the rear. Thirty-two firefighters extinguished the flames in 27 minutes. No reported injuries.

LAFD Incident 090521-0998

Chatsworth Fire Sends Two LAFD Firefighters to Hospital by Los Angeles Fire Department

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CHATSWORTH - It took 122 Los Angeles Firefighters just 81 minutes to win a relentless battle with wind-whipped flames accidentally sparked by a propane fueled barbecue, that damaged four condominium units under a common roof in the 22100 block of James Alan Circle on July 4, 2017. Two LAFD firefighters sustained non-life threatening injury in the fierce firefight.Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Scott Kingsland

LAFD Incident: 070417-1009

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.

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo

LAFD Incident: 112521-1480

East Hollywood Fire Destroys Building by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 8:33AM on October 27, 2019 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 4760 W Melrose Ave in East Hollywood. Firefighters arrived to find a two story, vacant center hall apartment building with heavy fire showing.

Interior fire attack immediately made entry while the truck company went to the roof to provide vertical ventilation. Heavy fire was encountered both on the first and second floors. As firefighters successfully extinguished the bulk of the fire on the first floor, the structural integrity of the building started to falter. With visible signs of pending collapse, Incident Commander Asssitant Chief Kristina Kepner made the call to transition to a defensive operation.

All firefighters safely exited the structure and left the roof to establish ladder pipe operations and hand lines for an exterior fire attack. 81 firefighters achieved a knockdown of the fire in 1 hour and 22 minutes with no injuries reported. A human remains detection K9 team responded to the incident to conduct a thorough search to ensure no victims were hidden under the debris. The cause of the fire is under active investigation by the LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section.

LAFD Incident: 102719-0465

Northridge Rubbish Fire Spreads to Vegetation and Structures by Los Angeles Fire Department

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NORTHRIDGE - LAFD firefighters were summoned to 17357 Chase St at 6:20 P.M. on Thursday, April 30, 2020, for a reported rubbish fire. Crews arrived to find that the fire had spread through grass and trees into a garage and an out building. The railways that passed behind the properties was shut down, as 34 firefighters took 41 minutes to extinguish all of the flames. There were no reported injuries.

LAFD Incident 042920-1078

Fire Sprinklers Help Save Valley Glen Bakery by Los Angeles Fire Department

VALLEY GLEN - It took three dozen Los Angeles Fire Department responders just 27 minutes to access, confine and fully extinguish a non-injury fire held in check by fire sprinklers within a one story bakery at 12630 Raymer Street, late March 10, 2023.

LAFD Incident 031023-1736

Deadly Fire at Venice Hotel by Los Angeles Fire Department

The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 2:04 AM on February 7, 2020, to 8686 West Venice Boulevard in Mid-City Los Angeles, where firefighters arrived quickly to find fire raging from both floors of a two-story hotel.

One hundred five firefighters under the command of Assistant Chief Kepner confined the fire to the structure of origin, extinguishing the flames in just 39 minutes. Firefighters assisted residents with a building-wide evacuation. At least thirty residents were staying on the premises and were displaced due to the fire.

Eight patients resulted from the blaze. Sadly, one patient succumbed to their injuries on scene, while five were transported to local hospitals (including one firefighter), one declined transport, and one was transported by private auto. A positive identification of the deceased, as well as the cause, time and manner of his death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner.

Volunteers from the American Red Cross assisted at least 30 displaced hotel clients, while Inspectors from the City's Department of Building & Safety assessed the structure for damage and structural integrity.

Fire loss to the Venice Hotel is still being tabulated. The cause of this greater alarm fire has been determined to be accidental due to a space heater being used in close proximity to combustible materials. This is a sobering reminder that space heaters need space. The recommended space around a heater is three feet from any paper, clothing, blankets, curtains, walls, or anything else that could catch fire.

LAFD Incident 020720-0108

Use of This Photo Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: Branden Silverman

DSC06711.jpg by rolesnevich

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Fire Breaks Out at Woodland Hills Vacant Home by Los Angeles Fire Department

WOODLAND HILLS - It took 28 firefighters 35 minutes to extinguish the fully-involved two-story single-family home at the 22200 block of West Mulholland Drive on September 29,2022. No reported injuries. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

LAFD Incident 092922-1583

Vacant NoHo Home Goes Up in Flames by Los Angeles Fire Department

NORTH HOLLYWOOD - It took 34 Los Angeles Fire Department responders just 24 minutes to extinguish a fully-involved vacant one story home in the 6100 block of Hazelhurst Place early January 23, 2021.

LAFD Incident: 012321-0106

Agnes IC LAFD 89s by Bernie Deyo Photography

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LAFD Fire Fighters battle a well involved house Fire in LAFD 89s area which resulted in 1 fatality.

LAFD Battles Greater Alarm Fire in Abandoned NoHo Building by Los Angeles Fire Department

NORTH HOLLYWOOD - It took 84 members of the Los Angeles Fire Department just 33 minutes in a well-coordinated defensive operation, to extinguish heavy fire in a vacant and structurally compromised two story commercial building at 11345 Chandler Boulevard on September 11, 2021, The greater alarm fire was confined to the previously burned structure of origin, and caused no injury,

LAFD Incident 091121-1079

Autos on Fire Threaten Building by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 3:17PM on April 24, 2020 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported auto fire which was then upgraded to a structure fire response in the 8800 block of N San Fernando Rd in Sun Valley. Firefighters found a one story, commercial building with multiple vehicles on fire (outside) impinging on the structure. 38 firefighters took only 18 minutes to fully extinguish the fire and prevent any extension into the structure.

LAFD Incident: 042420-0942

Downtown Los Angeles Commercial Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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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