3-Alarm Fire Guts 99 Cents Only Store In Hawthorne
HAWTHORNE (CBSLA.com) — Authorities said a three-alarm fire raged though a 99 Cents Store in Hawthorne Friday afternoon.
The fire in the 11800 block of S. Hawthorne Boulevard was reported just after 3:30 p.m., and smoke was visible for miles.
Officials said the building's roof partially collapsed.
Surrounding buildings, including a CVS store and a Payless shoes, were evacuated as a precaution, Los Angeles County Fire Department Capt. Keith Mora said.
Crews were still looking for hot spots and pouring water on the building as of 6 p.m.
No major injuries were reported. One firefighter reportedly suffered minor burns to a hand.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
KCAL9's Rachel Kim reported from the scene.
Officials told her the fire gutted a second floor level storage area. The building also sustained heavy water damage.
Residents hope the store is not a total loss.
"I live right behind the 99 Cents Store," said Monique Taylor, "It's going to affect the neighborhood. Tremendously. It's convenient, it's local, it's history. It's been here forever. And their produce is outstanding. You can't beat that."