Fire Burns Businesses, Closes Hollywood Streets

Smoke could be seen from the San Fernando Valley as the fire forced street closures in Hollywood

A fire that burned businesses in Hollywood Tuesday morning forced street closures and generated a column of smoke that could be seen from as far away as the San Fernando Valley.

The fire, reported in the 5400 block of Santa Monica Boulevard, started in the electrical room of an attic atop a two-story building, firefighters said. The business complex just west of the 101 Freeway (map) includes a shoe store, dental office, restaurant and other commercial operations.

Firefighters did not immediately determine a cause. Crews responded at about 7 a.m., and the fire was knocked down at about 9 a.m.

Nearby streets are closed for the final phases of the fire fight, which might not be completed until at least 11 a.m. Firefighters worked to contain the fire from outside the building because of the potential for partial roof collapse, fire officials said.

"It causes us extreme concern," said Los Angeles Fire Department Deputy Chief Joseph Castro.

The unreinforced masonry building was constructed before 1933, making it susceptible to collapse.

No injuries were reported. The businesses were closed at the time of the fire.

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