West Toluca Lake construction site fire sparked by demolition tool

WEST TOLUCA LAKE, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A cutting tool used in the demolition of a West Toluca Lake apartment building sparked a blaze that spread to several neighboring buildings on Friday.

Authorities responded to a fire at an abandoned construction site in the 4600 block of North Riverton around 12:20 p.m.

"Because of the onshore breeze, it also extended to several of the units across the street and even the next street over," LAFD Assistant Chief Andrew Fox said.

The flames burned an occupied apartment building next door, and multiple units were on fire. The fire also spread to the roof of a third building.

Two people jumped from a balcony and were injured. One woman was in unknown condition, while another woman was in good condition and being treated for smoke inhalation.

The fires were knocked down in just over one hour by 122 firefighters. One firefighter was transported to a hospital.

At least a dozen vehicles were damaged or destroyed on the street.