Full Breakdown
Westlake Structure Fire Hospitalizes Two Firefighters and a Civilian
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Incident
A structure fire erupted just before 1 p.m. in the 500 block of South Union Avenue in Los Angeles’ Westlake neighborhood. The blaze quickly spread to a two-story apartment building, a single-family bungalow and an RV. Approximately 60 Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) firefighters fought the fire, and knock-down was declared around 1:42 p.m.
Response and Impact
The LAFD reported that one firefighter was struck by a vehicle while operating on the scene, and a second firefighter experienced a medical emergency after knock-down was declared. Both firefighters, along with a rescued civilian, were transported to local hospitals and are listed as stable. The fire rendered two residential units uninhabitable, displacing at least eight residents. The American Red Cross is providing temporary shelter for those affected.
Personal Account
“He was burned from his arm and he smoke a lot of smoke and they take him critical to the hospital.” — Erika Tovilla, westlake resident
Data Summary
- Approx. 60 LAFD personnel engaged the fire at its peak.
- Fire knock-down declared at about 1:42 p.m.
- Two residential units declared uninhabitable; minimum eight individuals displaced.
Official Statements & Responses
The LAFD confirmed that the firefighter struck by a vehicle and the second firefighter who suffered a medical emergency were taken to the emergency room, and that all patients remain in stable condition. The department also noted that the cause of the fire is still under investigation. The American Red Cross announced assistance with temporary shelter for displaced residents.