California Today

Fire destroys abandoned home in Westmorland

17 May 2026 16:18

A three-alarm fire in Westmorland destroyed an abandoned home and spread to a church and a neighboring residence. The resident of the adjacent home was evacuated safely.

Fire crews saved the church's prayer area but the rest of the building was damaged. The cause is under investigation, and the property had been flagged as a hazard for years.

- The fire started around 3 p.m. Sunday on C Street near Westmorland Community Presbyterian Church.

- Strong winds caused rapid spread, leading to a third alarm. - The roof of the neighboring home collapsed after catching fire.

- Firefighters continued working through the morning to find hotspots. The investigation into the cause continues, with officials noting the property had long been considered a hazard.

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ImperialWestmorlandfirecrimeweatherImperial CountyBreakingWarningLocal