A significant fire broke out in a vacant building located in downtown Los Angeles on December 26, 2024, prompting emergency responses and evacuations in the area. The vacant structure, known for being a hotspot in the homeless community, saw numerous individuals fleeing the intense flames. According to the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD), firefighters received the first report of the fire at approximately 3:15 PM. By 4 PM, the firefighters had decided to switch to a defensive attack due to the intensity of the blaze, and it was declared a second-alarm fire.
The Morrison Hotel, located nearby, has been a site of many iconic photographs over the decades. Photographer Jim Marshall notably captured the essence of the location, leading to a nostalgic reflection on its past and the individuals who frequented it. Marshall’s photographs often depicted musicians and artists frequenting the hotel during its heyday. In an interview, a local historian emphasized the building’s significance in the cultural narrative of Los Angeles, stating, ‘This place holds memories of a vibrant artistic community that thrived in the 60s and 70s.’
Witnesses reported seeing flames shoot from the lower floors of the five-story structure. As fire crews worked diligently to contain the flames, several homeless individuals were seen escaping the scene, some without shoes. Emergency services and support teams quickly arrived to assist those affected by the fire. Firefighters managed to confirm that no injuries were reported as a result of the incident. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by local authorities.
