An early Sunday apartment fire in El Sereno pushed residents out of a two-story building and sent two people to the hospital, as firefighters battled heavy smoke and investigators started digging into what sparked the blaze. Crews knocked the fire down in about 34 minutes, but two units were later declared uninhabitable, and neighbors watched smoke pour from the structure while overhaul work continued.
In an alert, the Los Angeles Fire Department logged the call as INC#0267 at 4136 E Abner St and reported that Fire Station 16 was the primary unit on scene. About 52 firefighters responded to the two-unit building with attic space, and two residents, ages 34 and 71, were transported to hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department. The department said crews had the fire knocked down in roughly 34 minutes and that arson investigators and multiple companies were expected to remain on site into the morning for overhaul and a cause investigation. Video from CBS Los Angeles shows firefighters working under thick smoke with ladders raised to the roofline.
LAFD Alert- El Sereno Structure Fire - Now Out 4136 E Abner St MAP: https://t.co/h4qSxTZcCA FS16; DETAILS: https://t.co/7mtrh4zbMi
- Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) (March 22, 2026)
Local impact and assistance
Two of the building’s units were deemed uninhabitable, and displaced residents are being connected with local relief partners. The American Red Cross Los Angeles Region says it provides shelter, food, and basic health services during disasters, while 211 LA operates a 24/7 hotline that links people with immediate shelter and recovery resources.
Investigation and road impacts
Arson investigators and multiple companies were expected to remain on scene until at least 9:00 a.m., and motorists were urged to use alternate routes around the 4100 block of Abner Street, according to the LAFD alert. The address sits inside Los Angeles City Council District 14, which covers much of northeast Los Angeles, including El Sereno, according to LAist.
Why this matters
Apartment and other residential structure fires account for a large share of U.S. fire injuries and property loss, and federal data show cooking and heating equipment among the most common sources of residential blazes. The U.S. Fire Administration and local relief groups stress the importance of working smoke alarms, a clear escape plan, and quick notification of emergency services to limit harm when a fire breaks out.
Anyone affected by the El Sereno fire who needs assistance can call 2 1 1 or visit 211 LA for referrals to shelter, casework, and recovery services. LAFD and local outlets say they will update the public as investigators release more information.
