Flames engulfed a Gardena apartment building Monday morning, resulting in injuries to one firefighter and the hospitalization of four residents. The Los Angeles County Fire Department responded to the two-alarm blaze escalating within the residential structure located on the 12900 block of South Vermont Avenue. According to the authorities, the fire started around 11:55 a.m. and escalated rapidly, prompting a second alarm call just minutes later at 12:07 p.m.

Firefighters launched an aggressive offense against the fiery grasp, battling the two-story building's smoke and flames. Amidst the chaos, a firefighter suffered burns while engaging the blaze, LACoFD declared a "knockdown" of the fire at about 12:40 p.m. In the aftermath of the inferno, four civilians were also transported to a local area hospital for medical attention, the severity of their conditions has not been released. An investigation into the origins and cause of the fire is currently underway.

Witnesses described a harrowing scene as the fire ravaged the apartments, claiming belongings and driving scores of residents into the uncertain embrace of the street. The efforts of the LACoFD have been commended, with officials noting the swift response and coordination that prevented further destruction and loss of life.

The incident briefly ignited concern among the surrounding community of Gardena, a reminder of the unpredictable power of fire and the inherent vulnerabilities of even the most mundane structures. More details on the fire and its subsequent investigation can be found on the LACoFD Public Information Officer's X account.