Investigation Continues at Boyle Heights Warehouse After Massive Fire

Investigators from the California Department of Toxic Substances Control have inspected the Lineage Cold Storage Solutions warehouse in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles. This visit, conducted on a Tuesday, is part of a criminal investigation following a significant fire at the facility during the summer.

Officers were seen examining the warehouse offices before noon. When approached, one officer confirmed their presence was related to a criminal probe but did not disclose specific details.

Standing at the entrance of the warehouse’s office were three individuals from the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office, with two dark sedans blocking the entrance.

Lineage representatives have not provided an immediate comment regarding the situation.

The fire at the Lineage facility, which ignited on June 17, was massive. Firefighters took about a week to put it out. Several challenges complicated their efforts, including solar panels on the roof that delayed de-energization, posing access issues. Additionally, the 50-foot-high stacks of frozen goods created safety hazards. An unexpected ammonia gas leak led to temporary shelter-in-place orders for nearby buildings.

Post-fire, Lineage faced the task of quickly removing 89 million pounds of meat and food to prevent spoilage in the summer heat. It took over six weeks to clear the warehouse. During this period, local residents reported an increase in rats, flies, and related illnesses.

The exact cause of the fire remains undetermined. However, investigators from the Los Angeles Fire Department have not ruled out the involvement of the solar panels.

Martín Ramírez, who owns a car shop next to the warehouse, recalled seeing workers active in the warehouse in the morning. Moments later, he noticed the building had suddenly emptied.