Los Angeles firefighters encountered multiple challenges battling a fire in the Beverly Crest Mansion Tuesday afternoon.
As it was more than 23,000-square-feet, firefighters attacked it as if it were a commercial structure fire.
"The home's heavy construction contributed to access challenges, and conditions in the attic intensified -- fire and heat caused a partial chimney collapse and prompted the attachment of several additional fire companies for support," LAFD officials wrote in a statement.
"Firefighters located fire in the attic and coordinated simultaneous roof ventilation, fire suppression, and salvage operations..."
Crews were able to save priceless artwork and other items while the firefighting operation was underway.
When conditions changed, crews were evacuated from the mansion and ordered off the roof. Two firefighters were transported to a hospital for treatment, including one who suffered a medical issue.
After several hours, crews were able to safely re-enter portions of the structure and resume offensive operations, accessing and extinguishing remaining pockets of fire.
Extensive overhaul was involved.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
About the Author
Susan Nicol
News Editor
Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues.