Firefighters arrived quickly to find smoke showing from a large 3 story single family home. Immediately entering the 11,205 square-foot residence, firefighters discovered and assisted a 74 year-old woman in exiting the smoke charged building.
As crews searched within the massive home, additional firefighters circling the nearly half-acre lot soon discovered three men - including one wheelchair bound, in distress on a second floor balcony. Raising a 35' ground ladder and climbing to the stranded men's location, a pair of firefighters rapidly determined the trio could be safely sheltered in place as LAFD crews tackled flames and strategically abated the smoke.
Within minutes, firefighters were able to safely utilize an interior stairway to evacuate the men, bringing them to waiting Paramedics. The two younger males, ages 38 and 40 declined medical treatment or transportation.
The 65 year-old man who had been utilizing the wheelchair, as well as the woman earlier assisted by firefighters, were taken to area hospitals in fair condition for examination of smoke exposure.
The stubborn flames were confined within the deep recesses of the walls and ceiling of the first floor kitchen, and extinguished in just 38 minutes.
No other injuries were reported.
The relationship between the four persons assisted by Los Angeles Firefighters could not be immediately ascertained. Pursuant of protocol, the LAFD did not formally determine or publicly release their identities.
Loss from the fire is estimated at $200,000 ($150,000 structure & $50,000 contents). The early morning blaze originated in the kitchen area, and is considered to have been accidental in nature.
Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department
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