Massive Fire Engulfs AutoZone Store at Fountain and Highland in Hollywood: Roof Collapses as Car Batteries and Hazardous Materials Fuel Blaze; Nearby Businesses Fat Sal’s and Sushi Ajito Damaged

Massive Fire Engulfs AutoZone Store at Fountain and Highland in Hollywood: Roof Collapses as Car Batteries and Hazardous Materials Fuel Blaze; Nearby Businesses Fat Sal’s and Sushi Ajito Damaged; Billboard Collapse Feared Amid Extensive Emergency Response and Area Shutdown

Hollywood, CA – Chaos unfolded late Thursday evening as a towering inferno erupted at the AutoZone store in a bustling mini-mall located at the intersection of Fountain Avenue and Highland Avenue in Hollywood. The fire, which has caused the roof of the store to collapse, is being described as one of the most dangerous incidents in the area in recent memory due to the involvement of hazardous materials, including automotive batteries and flammable chemicals.

Incident Overview

The fire began around 7:30 PM, quickly escalating into a three-alarm blaze as thick plumes of black smoke billowed into the sky, visible from miles away. The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) dispatched over 120 firefighters to the scene to combat the flames. Despite their rapid arrival, the fire’s intensity—fueled by the hazardous materials inside the AutoZone store—has posed significant challenges for first responders.

The blaze consumed the AutoZone store entirely, resulting in the collapse of its roof within the first hour of the fire. Surrounding businesses, including the popular Fat Sal’s sandwich shop and Sushi Ajito restaurant, have also sustained heavy damage, with firefighters working to prevent the flames from spreading further in the densely packed mini-mall complex.

Firefighting Challenges

Firefighters are confronting multiple hazards as they work to contain the blaze. The AutoZone store, which serves as a hub for automotive supplies, housed numerous flammable and potentially explosive items, such as motor oil, windshield fluids, and automotive batteries. These materials have not only intensified the fire but have also caused several small explosions, sending debris flying and forcing crews to exercise extreme caution.

“Every time we think we’re gaining ground, another section flares up due to the hazardous materials involved,” said Battalion Chief David Guzman of the LAFD. “Our primary goal is to protect lives and contain the fire to prevent further destruction.”

Adding to the complexity of the operation is the structural instability of the mini-mall. The compromised billboard atop the complex has become a focal point of concern. Heat from the fire has weakened its supporting framework, and firefighters are closely monitoring it for signs of collapse, which could pose additional risks to the already dangerous scene.

Impact on Nearby Businesses and Community

The fire’s reach extends beyond the AutoZone store, with surrounding establishments severely affected. Fat Sal’s, a favorite among locals and tourists alike, has suffered extensive damage, with fire and smoke seeping into its interior. The adjacent Sushi Ajito, known for its fresh sushi and cozy atmosphere, has also been significantly damaged.

Employees and owners of these businesses, some of whom gathered outside the cordoned-off area, watched in disbelief as their livelihoods went up in flames. “We’ve worked so hard to build this place,” said one Fat Sal’s employee, who asked not to be named. “Seeing it like this is just heartbreaking.”

Local residents, many of whom frequent the mini-mall for its convenience and variety of services, have expressed shock and concern. “This place is a neighborhood staple,” said Maria Lopez, who lives nearby. “I can’t imagine the area without these businesses. It’s such a loss for all of us.”

Traffic and Public Safety Measures

To ensure public safety, authorities have implemented extensive road closures. Highland Avenue, a critical artery in Hollywood, is completely closed between DeLongpre and Lexington Avenues, causing significant traffic disruptions in the area. Fountain Avenue is also shut down, adding to the congestion on alternate routes.

Officials are urging the public to avoid the area entirely and have requested drivers to use Sunset Boulevard and La Brea Avenue as detours. Residents in nearby buildings have been advised to stay indoors and keep their windows closed to avoid inhaling potentially toxic smoke.

Emergency alerts have been issued via social media and local news outlets, warning people to steer clear of the fire zone. Helicopters are also being used to survey the area and coordinate firefighting efforts from above.

Health and Environmental Concerns

The involvement of hazardous materials has raised alarms about potential health and environmental consequences. The burning car batteries are releasing toxic fumes, including sulfuric acid vapors and lead particulates, which can pose serious health risks if inhaled.

Dr. Susan Patel, a toxicologist at a nearby hospital, warned of the potential dangers. “Exposure to these types of fumes can cause respiratory distress, eye irritation, and, in severe cases, long-term lung damage,” she said.

Local environmental agencies are on-site, monitoring air quality and assessing the potential spread of contaminants into the surrounding soil and water systems. Officials have assured residents that efforts are being made to mitigate these risks, but they have urged caution and advised against outdoor activities until the fire is fully contained.

Investigation into the Cause

As of now, the cause of the fire remains unknown. Arson investigators and fire marshals are combing through witness statements and surveillance footage from nearby establishments to determine the origin of the blaze.

Preliminary reports suggest that the fire may have started in the storage area of the AutoZone store, but officials have not ruled out other possibilities, including electrical malfunctions or human error.

Witnesses have reported hearing loud bangs and seeing flashes of light moments before the fire erupted, though these accounts are still under investigation. “It happened so fast,” said one eyewitness, who was dining at a nearby restaurant when the fire broke out. “One moment it was business as usual, and the next, there were flames everywhere.”

Community Response and Support

In the wake of the fire, local community members are rallying to support those affected. Online fundraisers have been launched to help employees of the damaged businesses, many of whom are now facing uncertainty about their jobs and incomes.

“Hollywood is a resilient community,” said City Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell. “We will work together to ensure that those impacted by this tragedy receive the assistance they need to recover and rebuild.”

Ongoing Updates and Next Steps

The situation remains fluid as firefighters continue their efforts to extinguish the flames and prevent further damage. LAFD officials have promised to provide regular updates as new information becomes available.

Authorities are urging residents to stay informed through local news channels and official LAFD social media accounts. For now, the focus remains on containment, safety, and beginning the long process of recovery for the businesses and individuals affected by this devastating event.