Suit Claims Locked Gate at CA Complex Delayed Firefighters at Fatal Fire

The family of a woman who died in an apartment fire last summer is suing the City of Los Angeles, claiming a locked gate prevented firefighters from saving her.

Victoria Velazquez, 68, was found by firefighters in a bathtub full of water, KABC reported.

The coroner's report stated she was burned alive while fighting for her life.

The family contends firefighters were delayed getting into the city-owned Aliso Gardens Apartments in Boyle Heights because gates were locked by a chain.

"When the city of L.A. firefighters got here, they couldn't get access to the fire," Patrick Nolan, the family's attorney, said.

He noted that he and the family are stunned that the gates at the apartment complex remain chained and locked.