A major fire and ammonia leak at a cold-storage facility in Boyle Heights on Wednesday prompted shelter-in-place orders across parts of Los Angeles, East LA, Vernon, and Commerce. The blaze, fueled by solar panels and an ammonia leak, sent thick black smoke visible for miles.
No injuries were reported, and the cause remains unknown.
- Fire started at 2:30 p.m. at a Lineage facility on South Los Palos Street.
- Ammonia leak and small explosions rekindled flames after initial containment. - Three helicopters dropped water as ground crews struggled to reach the fire.
- Shelter-in-place expanded to East LA, Vernon, and Commerce; residents urged to stay indoors.
Authorities continue to monitor air quality and the situation. The same solar panels caught fire in 2024, raising safety concerns.