4 firefighters injured after fireworks explode in Long Beach apartment fire

Four firefighters were injured Friday after fireworks exploded inside an apartment burning in the Belmont Shore area of Long Beach.

"Thank god everyone was able to get out of the whole complex," said resident George Giotti.

A fire was reported in a third-story apartment unit at Belmont Shore Condominiums, 3939 Allin St., at about 8:20 a.m., according to Long Beach Fire. 

Long Beach Fire Department Capt. Jake Heflin said that while firefighters battled the blaze in apartments on the second and third floor, a strong explosion blew out part of the second-floor apartment's windows and scorched the apartment above it. Several smaller explosions followed.

Three firefighters have been hospitalized with minor burns, while a fourth complained of hearing damage from the blasts, Heflin said.

Two people were displaced from the third-floor apartment. The fireworks were stored in a vacant second-floor apartment, according to Heflin.

Neighbors said the condo with the fireworks is owned by a trust and has been vacant for quite some time. 

The fire was declared out by 8:40 a.m. An investigation into the fireworks was underway, he said.