Structural collapse at a fire in an abandoned building
Los Angeles Fire Department companies (+Culver City) responded to a reported structure at the intersection of Venice Blvd and Glendon Ave in 43’s first in.
Engine 62 was first on scene and reported heavy smoke showing from a two story vacant board-up medical care facility, initiating an offensive attack. The fire was located on the second floor which had also established itself in the attic space.
Companies continued their interior attack for about twenty minutes. The IC, Venice IC eventually pulled all companies off the roof and out of the structure for firefighter safety. Two additional task forces were requested. Multiple ladder pipes were established, wagon batteries and a few large hand lines were put into effect. A half dozen transients in a motorhome adjacent to the structure were removed. The roof eventually collapsed with no injuries as a result of a collapse zone being established and due to LAFD’s defensive posture.
Knockdown was called about two hours later. Squad 95 was called to the scene for the possibility of leftover medical equipment in the structure and an Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team assessed the integrity of the structure. It is unknown what caused this fire, the area is known to a large number of transients.
Palms, Los Angeles, CA- November 12th, 2020
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