On December 15, 2016, the Monterey Park Fire Department responded to 301 East Garvey Avenue on a structure fire call. Two of our firefighters received minor injuries, were transported to a local hospital and then released.

The fire department wishes to express its appreciation to the residents, business owners and individuals who have stopped by the station, called or sent emails in support of our injured firefighters. Chief Haberle stated, “I am truly humbled by all of the calls, emails and cards the fire department has received in support of the injured firefighters.”

The two firefighters who sustained minor injuries battling the four alarm commercial strip mall fire on December 15 have been released from the hospital and are resting comfortably at home. They both wish to thank everyone who expressed concern over their wellbeing.

About the Fire

On December 15, 2016 at 1:33 a.m., the Monterey Park Fire Department responded to 301 E. Garvey Avenue, Monterey Park, for a commercial strip mall structure fire. Monterey Park Fire units with the assistance of Alhambra, San Marino, Pasadena, San Gabriel, Arcadia, Montebello, Los Angeles County, and Vernon fire departments responded to the incident. The fire was put out by 4:28 a.m.

Monterey Park Fire Department units encountered a single-story commercial strip mall with heavy smoke issuing from the structure. An aggressive fire attack was established with four engine companies, two ladder trucks, and a rescue ambulance; however due to the size of the structure, a 2nd alarm was called to bring additional resources. Eventually a 3rd and 4th alarm was called bringing a total of 85 firefighters to assist with the fire attack (each time an alarm is called, three engines, a truck and a command vehicle are called in).

The estimated cost of damage is still to be determined. A total of 13 businesses made up this strip mall and of those 13 businesses, 10 were considered a total loss. No civilians were injured; however, two firefighters received minor injuries and were transported to a local hospital. Both firefighters were treated and released. Forty residents from the apartment complex directly to the north of the strip mall were evacuated as a precaution but were allowed to return approximately four hours later.

The Monterey Park Fire Department Fire Investigation Unit is investigating the fire and cause.