A structure fire that broke out in L.A.’s Harbor Gateway area proved to be a difficult and dangerous one to contain overnight.
The Los Angeles Fire Department first stated that crews were sent out to the 16000 block of Vermont Avenue just after 4:30 a.m. Sunday. The first arriving crews found flames on the exterior of the building, which, according to preliminary estimates, measured 300 feet by 200 feet.
Changing conditions prompted crews to switch from an offensive to a defensive position, the department later said.
“Firefighters have transitioned to a defensive firefighting mode due to conditions changing. The outside fire has extended into the attic,” officials said in the second of three emergency alerts put out regarding the incident. “A small explosion occurred and [was] showing roof compromise.”
Video from the scene posted to the Citizen App shows at least one firefighter battling the flames on the roof when a fireball exploded through. The crew member quickly rushed from the immediate area, escaping via a ladder, and did not appear to be badly hurt.
Crews were still reported to be in a defensive position at 6 a.m. after it was found that the blaze broke out in or around a large battery storage facility and subterranean electrical vault, LAFD said.
By that time, the flames had been contained to a one-story part of the building. It was also announced by authorities that additional resources were being sent in to determine structural integrity and help with the hazardous atmosphere.
By 7 a.m., white smoke was seen billowing into the sky, indicating crews had gotten a hold of the flames.
No injuries were reported to civilians or firefighters right away. It is not immediately known what started the fire.
Those who need to travel in the area of Vermont and 163rd Street early Sunday morning are advised to seek alternate routes.
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