Early Saturday morning, a fire erupted at the abandoned Crouch Memorial Church of God and Christ, located on the 2600 block of Paloma Street in South Central Los Angeles. The Los Angeles Fire Department reported that flames were first seen around 3:30 a.m., prompting a massive response.

Firefighters mobilize to protect nearby homes

Over 100 firefighters, equipped with engines, ladder trucks, and a command unit, arrived on the scene within minutes. Their primary goal was to prevent the blaze from spreading to the tightly packed residential houses that line Paloma Street. Crews worked through the pre‑dawn hours, using water streams and foam to contain the fire and protect the surrounding neighborhood.

A resident who was in the area at the time was evaluated by emergency personnel, though no injuries were reported among the firefighters or the public. The fire department confirmed that all responding personnel are safe.

Abandoned structure has long troubled the community

The Crouch Memorial Church has been a source of concern for South Central residents for years. Since being vacated, the building has become a gathering spot for squatters and a dumping ground for illegal waste. Neighbors have repeatedly called on city officials to address the property, citing safety hazards and the negative impact on the neighborhood’s appearance.

According to community members, the church has burned twice before—once in 2013 and again in 2024—each incident leaving the structure more deteriorated. The latest fire caused significant damage to the roof and interior walls, further compromising an already unsafe building.

Arson investigation underway

While the exact cause of the fire remains unknown, the Los Angeles Fire Department has dispatched an arson investigation team to examine the scene. Detectives will collect evidence, interview witnesses, and review surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses to determine whether the blaze was intentional.

City officials have reiterated their commitment to addressing abandoned properties that pose risks to public safety. In recent months, the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety has increased inspections of vacant structures and is working with property owners to secure or demolish hazardous sites.

What residents can do

Neighbors are encouraged to report suspicious activity, especially around vacant buildings, to the Los Angeles Police Department’s non‑emergency line. Prompt reporting can help authorities intervene before incidents escalate into fires or other crimes.

The fire department also advises residents to stay clear of the scene until it is declared safe, as structural instability and lingering hot spots can pose additional dangers.

As the investigation continues, city officials hope the incident will spur faster action on the many abandoned properties that still dot South Los Angeles, protecting families and preserving the character of the community.

Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.