A devastating fire in Los Angeles has claimed the lives of 10 people, leaving the community in shock and mourning. The fire erupted in a residential building in the city’s Westlake neighborhood, rapidly engulfing the structure and trapping dozens of residents.
According to the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD), the blaze broke out shortly after 10:30 PM and spread quickly due to high winds and the building’s wooden construction. Firefighters arrived on the scene within minutes and battled the flames for over four hours before bringing the fire under control.
“Tragically, 10 lives were lost in this incident,” said LAFD chief Kristin Crowley during a press briefing early Friday morning. “Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of the victims. This is a tragic day for our city”.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but officials have not ruled out the possibility of arson or an electrical malfunction. Arson investigators and forensic teams are combing through the charred remains of the building for clues, according to abc7 news.
Survivors described harrowing escapes, with some leaping from second-story windows to avoid the flames. “I heard screaming and saw smoke coming under the door,” said Maria Lopez, a resident who escaped with her two young children. “It was chaos. I grabbed my kids and ran,” she told The Los Angeles Times.
In addition to the fatalities, at least 15 people sustained injuries, with several in critical condition. According to CBS Los Angeles, more than 360,000 residents across the greater Los Angeles area are under mandatory evacuation orders as multiple fires burn in the region. At least five major infernos have scorched the city and its surrounding areas, destroying more than 10,000 structures, including homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed her condolences to the victims’ families and praised the bravery of first responders. “This is a heart-wrenching tragedy for our community,” she said in a statement. “We will do everything in our power to support the survivors and ensure a thorough investigation”.
Evacuation shelters have been established across the city, with the Red Cross providing food, water, and temporary housing for displaced residents. In an interview with ABC News, LAFD spokesperson Brian Humphrey urged residents to remain vigilant and comply with evacuation orders, emphasizing the importance of safety over property.
The Westlake fire marks one of the deadliest residential fires in Los Angeles in recent years. Local officials are urging residents to check their smoke detectors, review fire safety plans, and be prepared to evacuate on short notice. Further updates on the investigation, victim identification, and containment of the city’s ongoing wildfires are expected in the coming days.
(With inputs from agencies)
A global media for the latest news, entertainment, music fashion, and more.
