Three-Alarm Fire Destroys Multiple Businesses in Old Town Newhall NEWHALL, CA —...

Three-Alarm Fire Destroys Multiple Businesses in Old Town Newhall

NEWHALL, CA — A massive three-alarm commercial fire tore through a portion of Old Town Newhall early Monday morning, destroying several businesses along Main Street and leaving significant damage in the heart of the historic downtown district.

Los Angeles County firefighters responded around 2:55 a.m. Monday, August 24, to the 24000 block of Main Street after reports of a commercial structure fire. Arriving crews encountered heavy smoke and flames coming from the building.

The incident was upgraded to a second alarm shortly after 3 a.m. and eventually to a third alarm, bringing more than 100 firefighters to the scene. Due to the intensity of the fire and concerns about structural collapse, crews transitioned to a defensive operation and used ladder trucks to pour water onto the burning buildings from outside.

The fire spread through the commercial complex and impacted several businesses. Among those destroyed or heavily affected were Newhall Refinery, The MAIN Theatre, Care Tucker Style House and an auto body shop. The former El Trocadero Mexican restaurant location was also destroyed. Officials said as many as six businesses may have been impacted.

Part of the building's front collapsed during the firefight, and crews remained on scene for hours extinguishing flames and hot spots. The fire was reported knocked down around 8:57 a.m.

The blaze caused extensive damage to a historic commercial structure more than 100 years old and devastated a portion of Main Street that has become a centerpiece of Old Town Newhall's arts, entertainment and dining district.

Main Street and several surrounding streets were closed while firefighters and investigators worked at the scene.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Arson and Explosives Detail is working with fire investigators to determine the origin and cause of the fire. Due to the extensive damage, crews are assisting investigators with excavation of the scene.

No fire-related injuries were reported.

The investigation remains ongoing.