LAFD Battles North Hills Structure Fire that Claims Man's Life

NORTH HILLS WEST - Los Angeles Firefighters battled a fully involved house fire that claimed the life of one occupant and a pet dog on August 8, 2013.

Just after 9:00 pm the Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned to a Structure Fire at 16336 Plummer Street, and while en-route they could see a large plume of smoke rising. They arrived on scene to find a one-story Single Family Dwelling fully involved in fire with flames blowing out of the front windows. Additional companies were immediately requested.

Fire attack teams entered the inferno through the front door and performed fire suppression and rescue efforts through the 1,344 square-foot home. Additional firefighters cut ventilation holes in the roof to release super heated gases. Much of the ceiling, which was tongue and groove without attic space above, burned through. A trailer and motor home in the backyard were damaged by the flames and a neighboring house to the west was exposed to flame and heat. Firefighters faced additional concerns of downed live power lines that could be seen arcing in the rear of the structure. DWP was requested to assist.

During the conclusion of fire attack, firefighters discovered the remains of an adult male significantly burned in the dining room of the structure. Beyond medical help, he was declared deceased at the scene. A pet dog was also found beyond help in the master bedroom. No other injuries were reported.

A well coordinated attack by a total of 52 firefighters, all under the command of Battalion Chief Brian Schultz, fully extinguished the flames in just 23 minutes.

It was not readily known if the home was fitted with functional smoke alarms. There were no security doors or window security bars to impede the man's egress. However, the home was described as pack rat conditions due to excessive storage inside. The 58-year old dwelling was not equipped with residential fire sprinklers.

A positive identification of the deceased man to include his age, as well as the cause, time and manner of his death, will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

Monetary loss from the fire is estimated at $300,000 ($250,000 structure and $50,000 contents). The cause of the evening blaze remains under active investigation by the LAFD Arson Section.

Dispatched Units: E287 T87 E290 E90 T90 E275 T75 RA75 E7 RA70 EM15 BC12 BC10 E70 E103 E298 T98 AR2 AR7 AR23

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD Mourns the Passing of Captain II Jeffrey K. Johnson

The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) will say goodbye to Captain II Jeffrey K. Johnson, who passed away while off-duty on Monday, July 29, 2013. Captain Johnson was an active member of the LAFD and was assigned to Fire Station 29, “B” Platoon, serving the communities within the Wilshire district.

Captain Johnson joined the LAFD on March 1, 1981. He served the Los Angeles community for just over 32 years. He will be missed by the men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department. Members of the LAFD who had the privilege of working with Captain Johnson have described him as being a quiet, conscientious and talented leader who cared for the people in the community he so proudly served as well as his firefighter family.  

Memorial and funeral services will be held on Friday, August 9, 2013 where the LAFD will say its final farewell to Captain Jeffrey K. Johnson. The public is invited to join, as we together mourn his passing.

DATE: Friday, August 9, 2013

TIME: 10:00 a.m.

LOCATION: Divine Savior Catholic Church

610 Cypress Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90065

A reception will be held for all family and friends following the memorial service at the Frank Hotchkin Memorial Training Center, 1700 Stadium Way, Los Angeles, CA, 90012.

In lieu of flowers a donation is welcome: Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen's Fund
815 Colorado Blvd, 4th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90041

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Unconscious Worker Dies in West LA Trench Accident

WEST LOS ANGELES - Los Angeles Firefighters rushed to rescue a worker found unconscious in a dirt trench on July 12, 2013. He was sadly determined dead.
At 9:28 a.m. firefighters quickly arrived at 2014 Malcolm Avenue (East of the 405 freeway and South of Santa Monica Blvd) where they found a 20' deep, 8' long, and 24" wide trench. Inside the trench, an adult male worker from a private plumbing company was laying unconscious and non-breathing. The worker was using an electrically operated Jack-Hammer while working on an under ground sewer line at the time of the accident. There was no collapse of the trench and the victim was not buried.

Safely, speedily and with well-practiced efficiency, LAFD trench rescue equipment, lowering rope systems, medical gear and personnel were relayed to the site. Additional workers on scene warned firefighters they possibly heard an electrical arch. Precautions were immediately taken to ensure a safe environment. Firefighters promptly provided additional shoring of the dirt to protect both the victim and responders, then monitored the air inside the trench to ensure there were no toxic gases. A Firefighter/Paramedic was carefully lowered into the trench and performed a medical assessment of the unconscious worker, determining him beyond medical help.

Declaring the man deceased, rescuers - still together as a team, transitioned from 'Rescue Mode' to 'Recovery Mode'. A thorough investigation immediately ensued by LAFD, Cal/OSHA Investigators and LAPD.

More than five hours after they were first summoned, 53 Los Angeles Firefighters, all under the command of Battalion Chief Al Ward, removed the man from the trench in a dignified and respectful manner, placing his remains in custody of the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner. A positive identification of the deceased, as well as the precise cause, time and manner of his death will be determined by the Coroner's Office.

The Mayor's Crisis Response Team provided on-scene crisis intervention, and attended to coworkers and their comfort needs.

Dispatched Units: T92 E292 RA92 E37 E59 HR56 EM9 BC9 T5 E205 E5 UR5 RA5 UR88 BC4 E62 BC11 DC1 RA858

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Fire in South L.A. Auto Repair Business Claims Life

SOUTH LOS ANGELES - A fire in an automotive repair firm proved deadly to a man early Sunday morning, when he was unable to escape his makeshift living space inside the business, as flames fed on the dense storage within.

The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 1:36 AM on June 16, 2013 by a 9-1-1 call from a passerby who noted smoke pouring from the 45' x 20' one-story building at 8002 South San Pedro Street.


You can click, grab and zoom the pre-fire image above - or view larger
LAFD crews arrived quickly to find fire showing from the well-secured 900 square foot building. Forcing entry through metal security doors to battle flames fed by pack-rat conditions amid thick floor-to-ceiling smoke, firefighters promptly encountered the body of a man just inside the front doorway.


The pulseless and non-breathing adult male was swiftly carried from the burning building by firefighters, who soon determined he was beyond medical help, and declared him dead at the scene.

It took 30 Los Angeles Firefighters under the command of Battalion Chief Anthony Matthews, just thirteen minutes to fully extinguish the flames. No other injuries were reported.

The commercial building, within which a small area had been converted to living space, contained excessive storage and was not equipped with smoke alarms or fire sprinklers. The front security door included a double-cylinder (key required on both sides) deadbolt lock. Such locks are known to impair egress in the event of a fire, and are not locally permitted in residential settings.

A positive identification of the dead man, as well as the specific cause, time and manner of his death, will be determined the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

Monetary loss from the fire is still being tabulated, while the cause of the blaze remains under active investigation.

Dispatched Units: RA833 RA33 E264 E64 T64 E21 EM13 BC13 E46 T33 E233 AR1 DC1

[ photos ]

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD Rescues Occupants from North Hollywood Apartment Blaze; 1 Resident Dies

NORTH HOLLYWOOD - Los Angeles Firefighters rescued several residents and halted an intense fire that ripped through a two-story apartment building in North Hollywood late this morning, leaving one man dead and another hospitalized.

Just after 10:00 AM on April 22, 2013, scores of firefighters rushed to a Greater Alarm Structure Fire at 5158 Riverton Avenue. They arrived on scene to find fire blowing out of a second floor unit of a two-story apartment building over parking. Additional resources were immediately requested.

As firefighters ran in the main entrance and half way up the stairs they were met by intense heat and flames billowing overhead. They relentlessly pushed forward knowing occupants were likely trapped inside.

Truck Companies promptly extended ladders to second story balconies and rescued at least two occupants who were scared for their lives. Quickly following, additional firefighters climbed to the roof to perform strategic vertical ventilation with chainsaws.

The next wave of firefighters performed a rapid and systematic search and rescue utilizing infrared cameras which helped locate an unconscious adult male in the dark, smoked filled upstairs hallway. He was pulled out and rushed to awaiting Firefighter/Paramedics whom provided immediate advanced medical aid and hurried him to a local hospital.

As firefighters emerged with blackened helmets, multiple bystanders on scene praised them for outstanding work, some even shaking their hands.

Due to firefighters swift and aggressive attack, occupant's lives were saved and the intense flames were halted quickly.

Sixty four firefighters, under the command of Assistant Chief Trevor Richmond, fully extinguished the inferno in just 25 minutes.

There were a total of five patients. The adult male transported in grave condition was sadly later pronounced dead at a local hospital. An additional adult male, assisted outside by caring bystanders prior to fire department arrival, was transported with non-life-threatening injuries. Three others victims on scene were evaluated but did not require transport to the hospital.

Of the 24-units in the building, five suffered significant fire damage and portions of the second and first floors had smoke and water damage.

The cause of the fire is undetermined and under active investigation by the LAFD Arson Section, who tediously combed the entire building.

Approximately 30 residents from 15 units were displaced and offered assistance from the American Red Cross. Occupants of nine units were happy to be rehoused and stay the night in their apartments. Water and power was restored to the building and the gas is expected to be turned on in the morning.

The estimated dollar loss is $350,000 ($300,000 structure & $50,000 contents).

Dispatched Units: E260 E60 T60 RA60 E86 RA86 EM14 BC14 E76 E102 E278 T78 DC3 E289 T89 E27 BC9 RA89 RA78 EM88 T39 E239 RA77 AR2 EA2 EA1 RA60 RA86 E90 E86 E289 T89 E227 T27 T78 E278 RA889

(NEWS VIDEO) (AMATEUR VIDEO) (PHOTOS)

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Man Found Dead as Firefighters Extinguish Boyle Heights Blaze

BOYLE HEIGHTS - Los Angeles Firefighters battling flames at a business site early Monday morning, discovered the body of a man as they extinguished the blaze, which has been described as suspicious.

The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 12:09 AM on February 4, 2013 and arrived quickly at 3521 East Whittier Boulevard in Boyle Heights to find fire showing from a combination one- and two-story office type building.


Eighty firefighters under the command of Battalion Chief Greg Gibson forced entry into the building to mount a fierce assault on intense flames, aided greatly by strategic vertical ventilation performed by rooftop colleagues. While advancing hoselines through the burning building, firefighters discovered a lifeless 54-year old man. Proving to be beyond medical assistance, he was declared dead at the scene.

The firefight continued unabated as LAFD crews tackled stubborn flames, which were brought fully under control in just 41 minutes. No other injuries were reported.

A positive identification of the deceased man, as well as the cause, time and manner of his death, will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

Monetary loss from the fire has been estimated at $60,000 ($45,000 structure & $15,000 contents). The cause and circumstances surrounding the blaze remain the focus of a joint investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department and Investigators from the Los Angeles Fire Department Arson/Counter-Terrorism Section.

Dispatched Units: E25 RA25 E202 E2 T2 RA2 E17 T9 EM1 BC1 BC11 E9 DC1 T10 E210 E11 AR1 EA1 AR11 E21 T26 E226 E25 T2 E202 E25

[ photos ]

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Man Critically Injured in North Hollywood Apartment Fire

NORTH HOLLYWOOD - A man dramatically rescued from a burning apartment by Los Angeles Firefighters late Wednesday evening, was fighting for his life at an area hospital, as investigators sought the cause of the blaze.

The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 10:44 PM on January 23, 2013 to 6737 Denny Avenue in North Hollywood. Firefighters arrived quickly to find one first-floor unit at the rear of the 18,150 square-foot 2 story garden-style apartment building fully involved with fire.

Thirty-seven firefighters under the command of Battalion Chief Peter Benesch mounted a tenacious fire attack with simultaneous search that led to the dramatic rescue of a 20 year-old pulseless and non-breathing man from the intensely burning apartment.

A relentless resuscitation effort by a trio of LAFD Paramedics ensued and continued during ambulance transport, as the veteran rescuers leveraged decades of experience to restore a heartbeat and respiration to the man, who had sustained second- and third-degree burns to more than 70% of his body.

No other injuries were reported.

Monetary loss from the fire, which was confined to the one heavily damaged apartment, is still being tabulated. The cause of the blaze remains under a joint active investigation by Los Angeles Police officials and Investigators from the LAFD Arson/Counter-Terrorism Section.

Dispatched Units: E260 E60 T60 RA860 RA60 E89 EM14 BC14 E77 E289 T89 E86 AR2 AR23 AR7 AR9

[ photos ] [ photos ] [ video ]

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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L.A. Chinatown Apartment Fire Claims One Life, Critically Injures Two Others

CHINATOWN - Despite a swift response and dramatic rescue by Los Angeles Firefighters, one woman has died and two men have been critically injured in a fast moving apartment fire Wednesday evening.

The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 6:04 PM on December 26, 2012 to 756 North Cleveland Street in the Chinatown district. Firefighters arrived quickly to find one second floor apartment at the rear of the U-shaped two story building well involved with flame.


LAFD crews commenced a simultaneous fire attack and rescue effort for an elderly mobility-impaired woman trapped in the burning apartment, as they crawled through blinding smoke that had repulsed neighbors' attempts to assist her. Quickly finding and carrying the burnt, pulseless and non-breathing 80 year-old from her apartment, firefighters discovered two injured men nearby, and began on scene care for the trio.

The lifeless woman, who had sustained 2nd and 3rd degree burns to nearly 80% of her body, was provided prompt advanced life support measures by LAFD Paramedics who rushed her in grave condition to the Los Angeles County/USC Medical Center, where she died shortly after arrival.

The injured men, described as her husband and son, suffered varying degrees of burns and smoke inhalation. In critical condition, they were also taken by LAFD ambulance to the Los Angeles County/USC Medical Center.

Forty-eight LAFD personnel under the command Assistant Chief Ronnie Villanueva confined the fire to the apartment of origin, extinguishing the blaze in just 13 minutes. Monetary loss was limited to $31,500 ($25,000 structure & $6,500 contents) and no other injuries were reported.

Though the two bedroom apartment contained three smoke alarms, their functional status and role in alerting residents could not be immediately determined. The 46 year-old building was not equipped with residential fire sprinklers.

The identity of the deceased woman, as well as the precise cause, time and manner of her death, will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner. Though the cause of the blaze remains the focus of an active investigation, LAFD Investigators do not consider the fire to be an intentional act or suspicious in nature.

Dispatched Units: E203 T3 RA803 E4 E220 T20 RA20 EM1 BC1 E9 E3 T9 E11 BC11 RA209 RA9 AR1 AR11 DC716 E3

[ video ]

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Cause Determined in Fatal West Hills House Fire

WEST HILLS - Los Angeles Firefighters found an adult male without vital signs of life in his bedroom while extinguishing a house fire Saturday afternoon.



Just after 1:00 PM on December 8, 2012, LAFD arrived at 23062 Baltar St to find a single-story residence with fire showing. Firefighters quickly suited up and kicked down the front door which was surrounded with flames. Inside, there was heavy fire to the left, particularly in the kitchen and living room, and thick black smoke to the right.

During a systematic Search & Rescue operation of the 1,625 square-foot home, firefighters discovered an approximate 50 year-old male laying prone in a bed within the burning structure. He was immediately pulled out and a team of Firefighter / Paramedics aggressively provided CPR, Advanced Life Support, and rapidly transported him code-3 to a local hospital. After further treatment by hospital staff, he was sadly beyond help and pronounced dead. No other injuries were reported.

A well coordinated effort by 46 Los Angeles Firefighters, under the command of Battalion Chief Joseph Foley, extinguished the blaze in just 20 minutes, confining it to the structure of origin.

The home was fitted with smoke alarms, however their functional status was not able to be determined due to extensive fire damage. There were no security doors, window security bars or obvious non-fire factors to impede the man's egress. The 50-year old dwelling was not equipped with residential fire sprinklers.

A positive identification of the deceased man to include his age, as well as the cause, time and manner of his death, will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

Estimated monetary loss from the fire is $150,000 ($100,000 structure & $50,000 contents).

Dispatched Units: E105 T105 E305 E72 RA872 RA96 EM17 BC17 E84 E104 RA105 E106 E296 T96 AR2 AR11 AR7 AR23

LAFD Senior Arson Investigator David Liske stated the cause of the afternoon blaze was from a, "discarded or misplaced cigarette".

Did you know? Every year, almost 1,000 smokers and non-smokers are killed in home fires caused by cigarettes and other smoking materials. You can make a difference!

 

firesafecigarettes.org

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Dead Body Found & Firefighter Injured in Canoga Park Business Blaze

CANOGA PARK - Early Thanksgiving Day Los Angeles Firefighters battled a blaze in a commercial building where a man's body was found in a burned-out business that went up in flames. Also, an injured firefighter was transported to a local hospital after a significant fall from a ladder.

The fire was reported at 2:10 a.m. on November 21, 2012. Firefighters arrived at the 7800 block of Alabama Avenue to find fire showing from a 75' x 150' one-story multi-occupancy commercial building, and immediately requested additional assistance.

In a well coordinated and swift attack, firefighters aggressively forced entry through metal clad doors with rotary saws, deployed hand lines in an interior fire attack, laddered the penalized roof, and performed vertical ventilation with chain saws to release hot gases and smoke. Their relentless effort and teamwork contained the damage to seven of the fourteen connected units (units 1-7 were on the west & 8-14 on the east). Tenants included a paint shop, two kitchen appliance stores, a construction business and a surf shop.

An adult male firefighter suffered injuries to the left side of his body from an approximate 16' fall while on a ladder. He was transported to a local Trauma Center in fair condition.

A total of 62 firefighters, under the command of Battalion Chief Karen Richter, extinguished the flames in 32 minutes.

The cause of the early morning blaze remains under active investigation by LAFD's Arson Section and LAPD Topanga Division, however preliminary reports suggest that there is no suspicious activity indicating this was an arson fire.

The unit of origin was not fitted with functional smoke alarms, and there were no security doors, window security bars or obvious non-fire factors to impede the man's egress. The building was equipped with fire sprinklers.

A positive identification of the deceased man to include his age, as well as the cause, time and manner of his death, will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

Monetary loss from the fire is still being tabulated.

Dispatched Units: E106 RA906 E296 T96 RA96 E104 EM17 BC17 E72 E305 T105 E107 DC3 SQ21 EM15 BC15 T88 E288 UR88 RA88 T89 E289 BC10 RA104 AR2 AR10 AR39 AR7 T93 E293 E87 SQ87 JT3

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Firefighters Pull Dead Body from Canoga Park Apartment Fire

CANOGA PARK - Los Angeles Firefighters quickly extinguished an apartment fire, where an adult female was found dead.

Just before 3:00 pm on November 13, 2012, firefighters responded to a Structure Fire at 6331 Glade Avenue. A medium amount of black smoke was billowing out of one unit on the third floor of a very large three-story center hallway apartment complex.

First arriving firefighters whom were familiar with the location, strategically drove down a back U-shaped drive way, allowing for quick access to the involved unit. Firefighters performed a drop-bag operation to lift hose-lines to the third floor and rapidly extinguish the flames, while colleagues raised 35' ladders and climbed to the roof.

After an immediate Search & Rescue operation, a 46 year-old female was located sitting on the ground against a mattress, in the small studio apartment. Firefighters pulled her out of the smoke filled room, however, sadly she was determined dead on scene.

A total of 45 firefighters, under the direction of Battalion Chief Wes Elder, extinguished the fire in just 13 minutes, confining it to the unit of origin.

There were no security doors, window bars or obvious non-fire factors to impede the woman from exiting the home.

A legally required smoke alarm was located, however it's functional status could not be immediately determined. The 42 year-old apartment was not equipped with residential fire sprinklers.

The cause remains under active investigation by LAFD's Arson Section, however there is no suspicious circumstances noted. The estimated dollar loss is $15,000 ($10,000 structure & $5,000 contents).

A positive identification of the deceased woman, as well as the precise cause, time and manner of her death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office.

Dispatched Units: E105 T105 RA105 E84 E95 E106 RA96 E293 T93 EM14 BC15 BC14 E10 EM10 E305 AR2 AR23 AR11 RA105

(PHOTOS)

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD Mourns Death of Handcrew Cadet in Non-Duty Accident

LOS ANGELES - The men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department mourn the death of Cadet Ryan S. Kirby, who died in a non-department related accident in Thousand Oaks on September 25, 2012.

Ryan Scott Kirby (1988-2012)

Kirby, age 24, began his volunteer service with the Los Angeles Fire Department in February 2012, as a member of LAFD Crew 3. He is survived by his parents James and Debbie Kirby. An eager learner and hard worker, he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Memorial Service:

Sunday, September 30, 2012
1:00 PM
Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks Memorial Park
5600 Lindero Canyon Rd
Westlake Village, CA 91362

A reception will follow, with directions provided at the service.

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Firefighters Discover Charred Body in South Los Angeles

SOUTH LOS ANGELES - Los Angeles Firefighters responding to a small fire in South Los Angeles Monday night, discovered a body when they fully extinguished the flames.

The Los Angeles Fire Department was summoned at 9:41PM on September 17, 2012 to the vicinity of 319 W 94th Street in South Los Angeles, where charred human remains were discovered in the roadway.

Beyond medical help, the person was declared dead at the scene. No other injuries were reported. A positive identification, to include the person's age and gender, as well as the precise cause, time and manner of their death, will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

The fire and circumstances surrounding the death remain the focus of a joint investigation by Los Angeles Police Detectives and Investigators from the Los Angeles Fire Department's Arson/Counter-Terrorism Section.

Dispatched Units: E64 RA264 AR17 AR2 AR7 AR11 AR9 AR23 AR10

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Three Perish in Fiery Studio City Collision

STUDIO CITY - Police are investigating the cause of a fiery pre-dawn crash that took three lives Sunday morning in Studio City.

The Los Angeles Fire Department was alerted at 3:35 AM on September 9, 2012 to a traffic collision with fire at 11412 Ventura Boulevard in Studio City. Firefighters arrived quickly to find a car heavily involved with flames, the inferno threatening at least one nearby business.

According to witnesses, the full-size sedan had left the roadway, striking a tree, before shearing a natural gas line as it came to rest against the wall of a nearby restaurant. Almost instantly, the vehicle was consumed by flames, incinerating two persons within, and another who was partially outside the car. Beyond medical help, the trio were declared dead at the scene.

It took the combined effort of 52 firefighters just 23 minutes to fully extinguish the flames, though LAFD crews spent several hours at the scene minimizing damage to Reno's Pizzeria, before assisting Coroner's staff with the discrete and dignified removal of the deceased.

No other injuries were reported.

A positive identification - to include the age and gender - of those who died, as well as the precise cause, time and manner of their deaths, will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

The collision remains under active investigation by Los Angeles Police officials. No damage estimate for the structure was immediately available.

Dispatched Units: E86 T60 E260 RA86 E278 RA78 T78 E60 E76 RA97 HR56 EM14 BC14 UR88 E97 E289 T89 DC3 SQ21

[ PHOTOS ] [ PHOTOS ]

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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30 Years Ago: L.A.'s Deadliest Apartment Fire

Today marks the 30th Anniversary of the deadliest apartment fire in Los Angeles history, the September 4, 1982 arson blaze at the Dorothy Mae Apartments.

Reported to the Los Angeles Fire Department at 4:26 AM, the fire set intentionally with 98-cents worth of gasoline erupted into a senseless inferno that took 25 lives - and brought profound change to our community and those who proudly protect it.

From the LAFD Historical Archive...

"The Dorothy Mae Apartment is a four-story, 50 ft. wide X 140 ft. deep, center hallway, of brick-joist construction that was built in 1927. Due to its location on an inclined lot, the first floor has only a foyer and boiler/laundry room located at the front of the building. The upper three floors contain 43 residential apartments occupied by approximately 170 people, almost all of whom were Spanish speaking. The building had the required Ponet doors and smoke detectors installed.

ANALYSIS OF THE FIRE:

The fire started in the second floor hallway, just inside the front Ponet door by the use of a flammable liquid. It appears that it burned unnoticed for some time. It is not clear how occupants first became aware of the fire. Once alerted, occupants started evacuating, using the hallways. Indications are that a flashover or back-draft occurred, resulting in 18 fatalities on the second floor and third floor.

The Ponet doors at the front stairwell were closed, as was the Ponet door on the fourth floor at the rear stairs. The Ponet doors from the second floor hallway to the rear stairs, and the fourth floor stairs to the exterior fire escape were open. This allowed the fire to travel from the front of the second floor to the rear stairs, and the fourth floor stairs to the exterior fire escape were open. This allowed the fire to travel from the front of the second floor to the rear, up the stairs to the third floor hallway, and up the stairs to the fourth floor, and out the rear of the building on the fourth floor.

The Fire Department received a delayed alarm to this incident. The flashover/backdraft occurred prior to the Fire Department's arrival. Upon our arrival there were indications of a small fire at the rear, not the true extent of the fire that had taken place, nor the large number of fatalities and injuries that had occurred.

ACTIONS TAKEN:

First arriving companies discovered the true situation upon entering the building at the rear. From the reports of bodies stacked in the stairwell..."

Read more...

While much has changed in our City in the past three decades, the impact of the Dorothy Mae Apartment Fire has only strengthened our commitment to prevent fire, protect persons from it - and when necessary, support the prosecution of those who would use it to cause harm.

To learn more about the proud history of the Los Angeles Fire Department, visit our on-line historical archive and then plan your visit to the LAFD Museum in Hollywood.

To discover ways to keep your family safe from fire, plan a visit to your Neighborhood Fire Station today!


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Two Die Trying to Assist Victims of Valley Village Traffic Collision

VALLEY VILLAGE - Two women who tried to help victims of an auto accident in Valley Village were electrocuted, and six others were injured, after a vehicle struck a fire hydrant and a light standard on August 23, 2012.

An adult male, the single occupant and driver of a white SUV, sheared off a fire hydrant and light standard just before 8:30 p.m. in the 12000 block of Magnolia Boulevard, near Ben Avenue.

Los Angeles Firefighters arrived to find the SUV stopped on the lawn of a residence. A fire hydrant approximately 10 feet behind it, was shooting water into the sky. The water quickly began to pool. Underneath the vehicle was an old fashioned concrete light standard, leaving behind electrical wires sticking out of the ground. The wires were disguised by darkness, running water, and the commotion of a growing crowd.

Neighbors were startled after hearing the crash and came running out their homes to help. They were met by other concerned citizens whom stopped their cars. Sadly, two of these well intentioned people, stepped into water that was unknowingly energized and were killed. Others followed suit, and were injured.

Fortunately, as firefighters rushed to help the motionless victims on the ground, their keen sense of safety along with warning of bystanders, stopped them stepping into the energized water, and becoming victims themselves. Rather, they quickly utilized rubber gauntlet gloves and a long pike pole to safely remove the victims, then rendered aggressive medical aid. Additional firefighters were immediately requested, and a total of 55 firefighters, all under the command of Battalion Chief Daniel McCarty, assisted in securing the area, shutting down the water flow, and treating the remaining patients.

Also, the Department of Water and Power helped shutting down the electrical and water problems, and LAPD's Valley Traffic Division investigated the crash.

A total of eight individuals, ranging from 19 to 57 years-old were injured. Sadly, and despite assiduous treatment by Firefighter/Paramedic's, two were later pronounced dead at an area hospital. Six others suffered minor injuries, one of which declined transport to a hospital. All but the driver were electrically shocked.

This tragic accident touched all our hearts, and in some ways can serve as a warning. Many people, with nothing but the best intentions, were injured and killed while trying to save others. This reminds all who want to help at the scene of an emergency to stay aware of their surroundings and if there is any question as to safety, please wait for trained rescuers to arrive.

Dispatched Units: E260 E60 T60 RA60 E102 RA78 RA86 EM14 BC14 RA102 RA86 E278 T78 RA89 E86 E289 T89 RA97 RA39 RA88 EM11 EM17 DC3 BC10

[photos] [video]

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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One Dead when Small Plane Crashes in West Los Angeles

WEST LOS ANGELES - The fiery crash of a small airplane in West Los Angeles Friday evening, claimed the life of one person aboard. No homes or vehicles were damaged, and no one else was injured in the impact or intense flames that ensued.

In response to a spate of 9-1-1 calls at 6:14PM on August 10, 2012, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to 2054 South Glendon Avenue in West Los Angeles, where they discovered a small heavily damaged single-engine airplane well involved with fire.

The aircraft appears to have struck pavement and yardspace on the northwest corner of Glendon and Mississippi Avenues, avoiding buildings, vehicles or any person in the neighborhood of one- and two-story homes. Flames from the burning fuselage, which ignited an adjacent palm tree, were extinguished in less than five minutes.
Despite the quick efforts of LAFD responders, the sole occupant of the plane was beyond medical help, and declared dead at the scene.

A positive identification of the decedent, as well as the cause, time and manner of their death, will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

The Los Angeles Fire Department remained at the scene for more than nine hours to assure safety, minimize environmental harm, preserve evidence, commence neighborhood recovery and assist investigators.

Pursuant of protocol, a formal investigation of the collision is underway by the National Transportation Safety Board.

Dispatched Units: E59 RA59 E292 T92 RA92 E295 T95 T61 E261 HR56 EM9 BC9 E71 T37 E237 RA859 E19 DC3 SQ21 BC18 E37 AR2 E62 EL83 RA906 AR7 RT83 T5 E205 E292 T92

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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House Fire Claims Life of Man in Glassell Park

GLASSELL PARK -  An adult male was found deceased in a fire that destroyed a house on the rear of a hillside lot in Glassell Park. The early morning fire was quickly extinguished by the Los Angeles Fire Department.


Just after 1:00 AM, on July 24, 2012, Los Angeles Firefighters were summoned to 3844 Aguilar Street, to find a two-story hillside residence, with a 464 square-foot detached home in the rear, that was fully involved in fire.

Firefighters worked aggressively to extinguish the intense flames consuming the wood frame constructed rear home with shiplap siding. Flames rapidly spread to a carport, shed and damaged a neighboring by residence to the East.

Due to the swift work of 52 firefighters, under the direction of Battalion Chief Rudy Hill, the blaze was extinguished in just 20 minutes.

Sadly, a 33 year-old male was found without vital signs of life, in the bathtub of the rear structure.

In examining the fire's aftermath, it was not immediately known if there were functional smoke alarms. There were no window bars, security doors, or obvious non-fire factors to impede the victim from exiting the home. The residence was not equipped with residential fire sprinklers.

A positive identification of the deceased man, as well as the precise cause, time and manner of his death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

The cause of the early morning blaze is under active investigation by LAFD's Arson Section and LAPD. While the rear structure appears to be a complete loss, the estimated dollar loss is still being tabulated.

Dispatched Units: E55 RA55 E250 T50 RA850 E42 EM1 BC2 E44 E12 T12 E212 RA56 E201 T1 E220 T20 DC1 SQ21 BC1 AR1 AR36 AR3 AR23 AR39 E3

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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Dead Body Found While Extinguishing La Tuna Canyon Brush Fire

LA TUNA CANYON - Los Angeles Fire and Police Investigators are seeking the cause of a fire in La Tuna Canyon early Thursday morning, in which a man was found dead.

Just before 3:00 AM scores of firefighters responded to 8300 West La Tuna Canyon Road to find a 20' x 30' area of thick tall brush burning on a steep hillside in La Tuna Canyon Park, an open space preserve overseen by the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy.

Due to the aggressive attack of first arriving firefighters, under the direction of Battalion Chief Randy Beaty, the flames were quickly extinguished before spreading.

However, during fire attack, firefighters discovered the remains of an adult male burned in the base of a steep ravine near the entrance of the West trail. Beyond medical help, he was declared deceased at the scene. No other injuries were reported.

This incident is under active investigation by LAFD Arson Counter Terrorism Section and LAPD Foothill Division. A positive identification of the deceased man to include his age, as well as the cause, time and manner of his death, will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

Dispatched Units: E274 T74 E24 E89 T89 E289 E98 T98 E298 E7 DC3 H0C H0D BC12 BC14 BC10 E60 E77 H1 H3 H6 E90 RA74 WT77 RA77 RA77 RA74 AR2 AR12 AR17

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

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LAFD Mourns Death of Off-Duty Firefighter Stephenie A. Glas

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of a beloved member of our
Los Angeles Fire Department family.

The untimely passing of Firefighter Stephenie A. Glas, occurred last Saturday evening, June 9, 2012, while she was off-duty in Malibu, the community she called home. Glas, age 37, joined the LAFD in August 2005 and was assigned to Fire Station 93 in Tarzana, at the time of her passing.

The public is invited to join the LAFD and the family and friends of Firefighter Stephenie A. Glas, when we gather together to mourn her passing. We kindly ask you to keep Firefighter Glas, her colleagues and loved-ones in your thoughts and prayers.

Public Memorial Service for

LAFD Firefighter Stephenie A. Glas:

DATE:               Tuesday, June 19, 2012

TIME:               10:00 am

LOCATION:      Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church
                            17720 Ventura Blvd
                            Encino, CA  91316

INTERMENT:   Private

VIEWING:        Private

DONATIONS:   IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, A DONATION IS WELCOME:
                           Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen's Fund
                            815 Colorado Blvd, 4th Floor
                            Los Angeles, CA 90041


Submitted by Brian Humphrey and Matt Spence, Spokesmen
Los Angeles Fire Department

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