Third-Alarm Fire Damages 10 Buildings, 12 Businesses In South LA
SOUTH LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Firefighters extinguished a third-alarm fire on Wednesday that erupted within a commercial building in South Los Angeles.
Shortly after 1 a.m., crews were sent to the 5700 block of South Hooper Avenue near 58th Street for report of a building on fire, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department.
Upon their arrival, firefighters located heavy smoke showing.
Flame shot as high as 100-feet, which caused power lines to fall near the building.
Authorities determined the fire started in a metal clad building, which subsequently spread to 10 buildings and damaged 12 businesses.
Firefighters said materials located inside of the buildings fueled the blaze to continue burning.
The Los Angeles City Fire Department was called to assist at the scene as authorities declared a greater alarm fire.
In total, more than 250 firefighters are currently working to extinguish hot spots at the scene.
Crews prevented flames from destroying two homes located behind the buildings.
However, six residents have been temporarily displaced.
One firefighter sustained minor injuries while battling the blaze.
At this time, authorities confirm at least five businesses have been deemed a total loss.
An estimate of damage done to the buildings has not yet been determined.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.