Three-Alarm Fire Destroys Warehouse in Montebello

Fire crews battled a three-alarm fire that tore through a warehouse in Montebello. 

The blaze was reported around 1 a.m. on the 800 block of Truck Way near Greenwood Avenue. 

According to Montebello Fire Public Information Officer Alex Gillman, the fire burned through a 10,000-square-foot warehouse and is believed to have started along nearby railroad tracks.  

Los Angeles County Hazmat crews were called to the scene to determine if there were any toxic materials or chemicals that may have burned inside the warehouse. The blaze sent huge plumes of smoke into the nearby area and could be seen for miles. 

At one point, explosions were heard coming from inside the structure, but it is still unclear what materials may be inside. 

After the initial response from Montebello Fire crews, the blaze was quickly upgraded to a three-alarm fire with several additional agencies assisting from San Bernardino to Monterey Park. 

The fire activity caused major road closures in the area along Greenwood Avenue near W. Olympic Boulevard. 

Kevin, who lives about two blocks away, said at the scene on camera that he happened to be on the porch when he saw massive smoke coming up and began seeing an orange color indicating fire. He then walked over to the location and saw the burning building. Kevin has lived in the area for over a decade and said he has never seen massive flames like this in the neighborhood.

A Montebello firefighter was treated on the scene for a moderate injury that was not burn-related.   

Firefighters battled the blaze in defensive mode due to wires down. According to Montebello Fire Department information gathered at the scene, multiple wires were down and hazardous materials were inside the building.