Health inspection flags fly infestation at Boyle Heights cold-storage site after fire

A Los Angeles city health inspection has identified a large population of green bottle flies at the Lineage Facility in Boyle Heights, where a fire last month left millions of pounds of meat to decompose. The four-page report, obtained by local media, warns that the flies thrive in the warm weather and organic waste, and could transmit myiasis, an infection that occurs when larvae are deposited in open wounds of humans or animals.

Residents have reported strong odors, rodents and the presence of the flies, with some saying they keep doors and windows closed to avoid contact. The inspection notes that more than 900 complaints have been logged about the conditions surrounding the warehouse.

Mayor Karen Bass wrote to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health describing the situation as a serious health risk and urging the company to take immediate action. Lineage, the facility’s operator, said it has expanded pest-control efforts with Orkin, distributed hundreds of fly traps to nearby households and is monitoring both flies and rats. The company also reported that it has removed 3,195 tons of the spoiled product from the site.

Councilmember Ysabel Jurado said the temporary traps are insufficient and that the problem will not be resolved until all waste is fully cleared. Alex Rodriguez, vice president of operations at Lineage, said the firm is committed to a rapid and safe cleanup, including measures to reduce odors and monitor air quality.