Fire at Boyle Heights cold-storage facility prompts helicopter response and shelter-in-place advisory
A large blaze at a cold-storage warehouse in Boyle Heights was contained after fire crews used water-dropping helicopters; officials asked residents to stay indoors while the cause remains under investigation.
Firefighters battled a major fire that broke out around 5:30 p.m. at a cold-storage facility on South Los Palos Street in Boyle Heights. The flames on the roof were eventually contained, and no injuries were reported, though the ignition source is still being investigated.
Because ground crews could not reach all parts of the blaze, four water-dropping helicopters were deployed, each releasing about 480 gallons per drop to help suppress the fire. Video from the scene showed the blaze largely extinguished shortly after the aerial effort began.
Los Angeles city officials advised residents and pet owners to remain indoors and to turn off air-conditioning units due to potential hazardous emissions. Traffic disruptions were reported, with Metro buses rerouted and drivers urged to avoid the 5 and 710 freeways as a thick plume of smoke lingered over the area.
"Our office is closely monitoring the fire at the cold storage facility on the 1400 block of South Los Palos Street in Boyle Heights. We know how frightening it is to see heavy smoke in your neighborhood, especially for families, workers, small businesses, and commuters who are trying to understand what is happening and how to stay safe," said Los Angeles City Councilwoman Ysabel Jurado.
Automotive specialist Dave Kunz advised motorists stuck near the smoke to set their vehicle ventilation to recirculate mode to avoid drawing in outside air. The freeways remained open but traffic moved slowly.