Massive Fire Engulfs Downtown Los Angeles Commercial Buildings; Over 100 Firefighters Respond

Los Angeles, CA – A major emergency was declared after a massive fire erupted at 215 E Winston Street in downtown Los Angeles on Thursday, June 19, 2025. The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) responded at 1:12 PM to reports of a structure fire in a row of commercial buildings. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy smoke and intense flames fueled by highly combustible materials, including candles, clothing, and cardboard stored inside the buildings.

Fire crews faced significant challenges due to heavy storage conditions that blocked access to the core of the fire. Despite an aggressive initial attack, the blaze spread to an adjoining structure and intensified. As conditions worsened, Assistant Chief Melford Beard ordered a shift to defensive operations, deploying master streams to contain the fire. The RS3 Robotic Firefighting Vehicle was utilized to access areas deemed unsafe for personnel.

Over 100 firefighters from 22 LAFD companies battled the flames for more than six hours. The fire was largely contained by 7:27 PM, with crews successfully preventing further spread and saving surrounding businesses. The bulk of the fire was extinguished within three hours, but lingering pockets required continued attention before official knockdown was declared.

The fire caused significant road closures, smoke issues, and power outages in the immediate area as authorities cut electricity to assist firefighting efforts. No injuries or fatalities were reported. The affected buildings, including a structure built in 1916, sustained heavy damage. The LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section is actively investigating the cause of the blaze. Residents and commuters are advised to avoid the area until further notice as cleanup and investigation continue.