structurefire photos on Flickr

LAFD Swiftly Extinguishes Stubborn Fire in Vacant North Hollywood Building by Los Angeles Fire Department

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NORTH HOLLYWOOD - It took fifty Los Angeles Fire Department responders little more than a half hour to gain access to, confine and fully extinguish stubborn flames from a non-injury fire on the second floor of a vacant two story commercial building at 6233 Laurel Canyon Boulevard on June 5, 2021.

LAFD Incident: 060521-0941

Greater Alarm Fire in Van Nuys by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 1:29PM on December 28, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 7800 block of N Balboa Bl in Van Nuys for a reported structure fire. Firefighters located a one story, commercial building (housing multiple businesses) with fire showing through the roof. 76 firefighters extinguished the fire in 36 minutes with no injuries reported. The fire destroyed the unit of origin and damaged the adjacent units. A mobile home/RV park next to the building was defended against the blaze.There were no injuries reported.

LAFD Incident 122822-0873

Auto into Building Starts Fire and Injures Two by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 11:50PM on September 14, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported vehicle into building in the 13200 block of W Van Nuys Bl. Upon arrival, firefighters an auto into a one story commercial building with fire inside the building. The incident transitioned to a structure fire response and two patients were pulled from the auto and transported to the hospital.

LAFD Incident 091422-1890

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

GREATER ALARM FIRE DAMAGES WINNETKA STRIP MALL by Los Angeles Fire Department

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The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 11:01 PM on July 22, 2017 to 20851 Sherman Way in Winnetka, where firefighters arrived quickly to find heavy fire showing from a one story 4,452 square foot, four tenant commercial building on the northeast corner of Sherman Way and De Soto Avenue.

One hundred and one firefighters under the command of Assistant Chief Andrew Fox confined the fire to the extensively damaged building of fire origin, extinguishing the flames in just 36 minutes.

No injuries were reported.

Fire loss to Ladin's Liquor Delicatessen, Cash 4 Gold CP, Winnetka Check Cashing, and Raspados Y Churros Frutal is still being tabulated. The cause of the early morning fire remains under active investigation.

LAFD Incident: 072217-1540

Structure Fire LAFD 91s by Bernie Deyo Photography

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Fully involved garage and about 1/3 of the house in LAFD 91s first in, heavy smoke and fire where visible by fire onscene units.

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

Firefighters Defend Neighboring Structures As Hollywood Theater Goes Up In Flames by Los Angeles Fire Department

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HOLLYWOOD - A blaze broke out Wednesday morning which consumed a vacant theater that was tucked between several other buildings on three sides. Thankfully, firefighters protected all surrounding structures without injury, and have two persons of interest being questioned.

The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the 1400 block of North Las Palmas Avenue at 8:57 AM on Wednesday, July 13, 2022 to find a vacant two-story theater with smoke showing. Firefighters ascended ladders to the roof, and made ground-level entry to the interior of the 9,082 square-foot theater built in 1905. Shortly after, flames erupted through the roof. The Incident Commander announced a change to defensive tactics on the radio and all crews withdrew from the building.

Firefighters spent the majority of the incident in defensive operations, as heavy fire compromised the structure, making it extremely hazardous to enter. Firefighters deployed hose lines, heavy streams, and ladder pipes from the exterior of the building, and on adjacent rooftops. Despite the heavy fire load and partial structural collapse of the vacant structure, firefighters were able to successfully protect all neighboring structures (on all three sides with neighbors), including several stand-alone units of the Hollywood Center Motel, the Hollywood Guest Inn, and a multi-family residential building.

Firefighters extinguished the flames in just under two hours. This address will be red tagged by the Department of Building and Safety due to the significant structural damage. Fire investigators from LAFD's Arson/Counter Terrorism Section arrived on scene for investigation and, in coordination with LAPD, have detained one man and one woman for questioning. Thankfully, there were no injuries caused by this fire. The fire-cause investigation remains active.

LAFD Incident: 071322-0476

Photo Use Permitted via Creative Commons - Credit: LAFD Photo | Gary Apodaca

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

Major Emergency Commercial Fire Downtown 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

Woodland Hills Greater Alarm Structure Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 11:40PM on May 9, 2022 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 6400 block of N Independence AV in Woodland Hills for a reported structure fire.

Crews arrived to find heavy smoke showing from a one story, commercial (concrete tilt-up) building.

The fire intensified rapidly and with fire now showing through the roof, the incident transitioned to a defensive operation.

Firefighters knocked back the bulk of the fire and returned to offensive mode to reach the final pockets of fire. Ultimately, 74 firefighters extinguished the fire in 69 minutes with no injuries reported. LAFD Arson responded to investigate the cause of the fire.

LAFD Incident: 050922-1835

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 | Margaret Stewart

LAFD Incident: 072221-0162

Greater Alarm Fire in East Hollywood by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 11:14AM on July 25, 2023 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 570 block of N Normandie Av in East Hollywood.

Firefighters arrived to a vacant to story fourplex with heavy fire showing.

Crews initiated an offensive operation, simultaneously conducted vertical ventilation and interior fire attack.

The incident rose to the Greater Alarm level with over 70 firefighters achieving knockdown in two hours and three minutes.

Two firefighters were transported to the hospital with heat related illness and returned to duty later that day.

LAFD Incident 072523-0706

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

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

Major Emergency Commercial Fire Downtown 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

LAFD Battles Well Involved North Hills Condo by Los Angeles Fire Department

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NORTH HILLS - It took 43 Los Angeles firefighters just 25 minutes to access, confine and fully extinguish heavy fire on the two upper floors of a three-story condominium at 9131 Burnet Avenue on September 12, 2021. The LAFD crews prevented injury and precluded flames from extending to the adjacent unit or first floor parking area.

LAFD Incident 091221-1258

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

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

LAFD Extinguishes Pacoima House Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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PACOIMA - It took 24 firefighters 19 minutes to extinguish the fully-involved single-family home at the 10300 block of North Rincon Avenue on September 28,2022, despite live wires down and a roof collapse at the site of a previous burn. Firefighters successfully defended the neighboring structures. Primary and secondary searches of the structure were clear (no patients found). No reported injuries. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

LAFD Incident 092822-1185

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

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

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

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

Explosive Fire Destroys Boyle Heights Business by Los Angeles Fire Department

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BOYLE HEIGHTS - Relentless and well coordinated defensive firefighting operations by more than 120 members of the Los Angeles Fire Department, helped bring massive flames under control without injury in just 90 minutes early November 4, 2022, when fire engulfed a 17,115 square foot one-story building that housed a vast supply of smoking materials, including a huge volume of tobacco and butane canisters, the latter of which led to a prolonged volley of small explosions that rained debris at the peak of the fire.

LAFD Incident 110422-0088

Naughty Pine Tavern Fire Hampton Minnesota by Scott Henderson

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Photo taken by MN Fire Apparatus. Posted to my Flickr page with their permission

This was my father's hang out for many years. It's sad to see this building go. I saw the fire on Facebook while I was on vacation in Vancouver. There were a lot of good memories here

Photo was taken May 18th 2017

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

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

Collapse Inside South Park Church Blaze Sends Firefighters to Hospital by Los Angeles Fire Department

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SOUTH PARK - The Los Angeles City Fire Department battled a Major Emergency Structure Fire early Sunday morning, on Patriot Day, at the Victory Baptist Church. Intense fire weakened the structural supports and collapsed, trapping several firefighters and sending three to the hospital.

Approximately 150 firefighters were ultimately called to the 4800 block of South McKinley Avenue in the early morning hours of Sunday, September 11, 2022, where 9-1-1 callers had reported smoke coming from Victory Baptist Church. Crews initially made entry to find heavy smoke inside the structure. As firefighters made entry, inevitably introducing more air to the conditions inside, fire behavior worsened quickly.

Approximately 30 minutes after the arrival of firefighters, there was a structural collapse inside, trapping several LAFD members. Two consecutive mayday calls were put out on the radio alerting the fire ground of trapped firefighters. Nearby crews quickly effected a rescue of three firefighters. One was transported immediately to a local hospital in moderate condition, while a second finished battling the fire and was transported in fair condition after the flames were declared to be knocked down. The third followed up with care on his own after the incident.

After the interior collapse, crews withdrew into defensive operations, utilizing heavy streams from the exterior of the building. It took one hour and forty minutes to extinguish the flames. LAFD Heavy Equipment was called out to assist with moving debris to access hot spots. Crews will remain working throughout the day to continue uncovering smoldering debris in the rubble.

LAFD's House of Worship Task Force and Arson/Counter-Terrorism Section are working together to conduct the fire-cause investigation, which remains active.

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

LAFD Incident: 091122-0156

Fire Destroys Vacant Lincoln Heights Home by Los Angeles Fire Department

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LINCOLN HEIGHTS - It took 36 Los Angeles Fire Department responders less than 30 minutes to access, confine and fully extinguish flames that consumed a vacant two-story home in the 2600 block of North Pasadena Avenue late October 3, 2022. The non-injury fire, which destroyed the home, was determined to be an intentional act.

LAFD Incident 100322-1584

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

Detroit Fire - L22, Box Alarm, Roosevelt St. & Merrick St., 06/12/2016 by Hooks & Halligans

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Detroit Fire Department operating at a Box Alarm at Roosevelt Street and Merrick Street.

Greater Alarm Fire in East Hollywood by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 11:14AM on July 25, 2023 the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 570 block of N Normandie Av in East Hollywood.

Firefighters arrived to a vacant to story fourplex with heavy fire showing.

Crews initiated an offensive operation, simultaneously conducted vertical ventilation and interior fire attack.

The incident rose to the Greater Alarm level with over 70 firefighters achieving knockdown in two hours and three minutes.

Two firefighters were transported to the hospital with heat related illness and returned to duty later that day.

LAFD Incident 072523-0706

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

LAFD Quickly Tackles Flames at Hyde Park Triplex by Los Angeles Fire Department

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HYDE PARK - It took Los Angeles Firefighters just 26 minutes to fully extinguish a stubborn non-injury fire in one unit of a one-story residential triplex in the 3500 block of West Florence Avenue on January 4, 2019. © Photo by Justin Johnson

LAFD Incident: 010419-0979

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

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

Georgetown, TX Fire Dept. Firefighters Battling Structure Fire at Eats on 8th Restaurant. by CenTexPhoto

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Watch the HD video at youtu.be/_5ay3QYqo98

Fire Stopped Before Damaging Beverly Grove Building by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 10:28AM, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 6200 block of W Wilshire Blvd in Beverly Grove. Firefighters extinguished an outside fire before it was able to extend inside a commercial building.

LAFD Incident: 072917-0548

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

Fatality Fire in Broadway-Manchester by Los Angeles Fire Department

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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 Battles Major Emergency Structure Fire in Boyle Heights by Los Angeles Fire Department

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BOYLE HEIGHTS - It took the relentless effort of over 180 firefighters, during a triple-digit heatwave on Monday, two hours to extinguish a stubborn fire, which consumed conjoined structures in Boyle Heights.

The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 2:12 PM on September 5, 2022 (Labor Day) to the 2800 block of East 11th Street, where firefighters arrived quickly to find an already well-developed fire inside of a large one-story row of commercial buildings, amid a week-long Los Angeles heatwave.

Defensive firefighting operations under the command of Assistant Chief Dean Zipperman continued for two hours until the fire was declared extinguished at 4:12 PM. While fighting the fire, four firefighters sustained non-life-threatening injuries (one struck by falling debris, three encountered an electrical hazard) and were transported to a local hospital. All four were released later in the day and remained on duty for their shift.

The expansive structure, which contained many separate businesses side-by-side, sustained significant damage in five consecutive occupancies.

LAFD Incident: 090522-0984

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.

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

Major Blaze in Downtown Building by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 9:44PM on November 9, 2018 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 210 N Center Street in Downtown Los Angeles. The large, vacant building had numerous safety hazards from previous fires. While the building suffered extensive damage, firefighters defended the neighboring buildings from harm.

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

LAFD Incident: 110918-2060

Aggressive Actions Stop Apartment Fire by Los Angeles Fire Department

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At 3:21PM on 2 April, 2017 the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a structure fire in teh 15500 block of W Rayen St in North Hills. With fire showing from a unit on the top floor of a 4 story apartment building, firefighters initiated fire attack and ventilation operations. Their quick actions stopped this non-injury fire from extending beyond the unit of origin.

Photo by Greg Doyle

LAFD Incident: 040217-0948

Inferno At Northridge Utility Yard Leads To Power Outage by Los Angeles Fire Department

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The Los Angeles Fire Department was notified at 6:53 PM on July 8, 2017 of an explosion heard in the 18900 block of Parthenia Street in Northridge, where firefighters arrived quickly to find heavy flames and a towering column of thick, dark smoke from within the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) energy transmission site known as Receiving Station J.

A vat containing as much as 60,000 gallons of mineral oil, reportedly used as a cooling agent for high-voltage equipment, was heavily involved with fire and believed to be fully energized.

LAFD Assistant Chief Patrick Butler conferred with LADWP experts to electrically isolate the fire and assure the safety of nearby residents, utility workers and firefighters - as well as preclude greater harm to citywide utility service, before leading 74 firefighters to battle the flames directly with large volumes of water and firefighting foam. The inferno was fully extinguished in just 2 hours, and there were no injuries.

The resultant power outage at a time of intense summer heat affected the communities of Northridge, Winnetka, Reseda, Lake Balboa, Tarzana, North Hills, Granada Hills, Chatsworth, West Hills, Canoga Park and Woodland Hills according to LADWP officials, leading to scores of LAFD service calls including many elevator rescues.

Fire damage to the facility, and any effect it may have upon utility service will be determined by LADWP. The cause of the blaze is considered accidental, and attributed to a mechanical malfunction per utility officials

LAFD Incident: 070817-1383

Downtown LA Commercial Fire Hampered By Fire Sprinklers by Los Angeles Fire Department

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LOS ANGELES - LAFD responded to 1620 South Los Angeles Street at 2:44 A.M. on January 18, 2020. A one-story commercial building contained a fire inside being held in check by fire sprinklers. This caused excessive smoke to build up with only minimal growth of the fire. Interior fire attack companies searched for the seat of the fire in very low visibility conditions, while navigating through excessive storage of textiles. Firefighters on the roof cut holes to ventilate the structure, letting some of the thick smoke out into the early morning sky, improving conditions for firefighters inside. Ultimately, 55 firefighters extinguished the fire in 49 minutes, with no reported injuries. The cause of the fire is unknown and under investigation.

LAFD Incident 011820-0151

LAFD Battles Major Emergency Structure Fire in Boyle Heights by Los Angeles Fire Department

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BOYLE HEIGHTS - It took the relentless effort of over 180 firefighters, during a triple-digit heatwave on Monday, two hours to extinguish a stubborn fire, which consumed conjoined structures in Boyle Heights.

The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 2:12 PM on September 5, 2022 (Labor Day) to the 2800 block of East 11th Street, where firefighters arrived quickly to find an already well-developed fire inside of a large one-story row of commercial buildings, amid a week-long Los Angeles heatwave.

Defensive firefighting operations under the command of Assistant Chief Dean Zipperman continued for two hours until the fire was declared extinguished at 4:12 PM. While fighting the fire, four firefighters sustained non-life-threatening injuries (one struck by falling debris, three encountered an electrical hazard) and were transported to a local hospital. All four were released later in the day and remained on duty for their shift.

The expansive structure, which contained many separate businesses side-by-side, sustained significant damage in five consecutive occupancies.

LAFD Incident: 090522-0984

LAFD Crews Swiftly Extinguish House Fire in Panorama City by Los Angeles Fire Department

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PANORAMA CITY - It took 30 firefighters from the Los Angeles Fire Department less than 25 minutes to access, confine and fully extinguish a non-injury fire involving a one story home in the 8900 block of Colbath Avenue late March 2, 2022.

LAFD Incident 030222-1895

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.

Photo by Cody Weireter

LAFD Incident: 110119-1860

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