Early Morning Fire at Two-Story Home

As a member of the neighborhood used a garden hose on a two-story residence that was on fire, Manhattan Beach firefighters forced entry into the garage to discover smoke inside the home, said City Manager David Carmany Friday afternoon.

The fire broke out sometime before 5:55 a.m. Friday in the 400 block of 3rd Street. Once inside, firefighters used thermal imagining equipment and confirmed no one was inside the home. After determining the fire was burning inside the wall and floor of the second story, firefighters cut open the walls and floor to extinguish the blaze.

“This is just another example of how valuable our equipment and resources are to putting out fires and stopping further property damage and the loss of lives,” said Fire Chief Robert Espinosa. “Our talented team of professionals use all of our equipment for maximum benefit in rendering aid during emergencies. 

"We are grateful to the City Council that allows us to continue to add and replace equipment and make sure our firefighters and emergency responders are able to evaluate and solve emergencies quickly, saving lives, and minimal damage to property.”

Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach firefighters assisted in the effort, said Espinosa.

Neighbors said they saw flames and smoke coming from the outside of a wall. Manhattan Beach fire investigators have identified where the fire started but have not yet determined the cause. They will continue to investigate.