Emergency Fire Update – January 13, 2026 – INC#1523

Major Emergency Fire engulfs North Hills Buildings; Evacuations Underway

A important structure fire erupted in North Hills, Los angeles, at approximately 6:06 PM, prompting a massive response from the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). The incident, designated INC#1523, currently involves 17 fire companies battling flames at 15236 W Parthenia St.

Rapid escalation to Major Emergency Status

The fire’s rapid spread led authorities to classify it as a Major Emergency incident. Firefighters are employing a two-pronged strategy: a defensive mode on a commercial building described as boarded up, and an offensive approach on an adjacent apartment building. This tactical division reflects the differing challenges posed by each structure.

Did you know? – The LAFD uses a tiered response system.A “Major Emergency” designation brings additional resources and coordination to effectively manage large-scale incidents like this fire.

Evacuation and Search Operations

Crews are systematically working through each floor of the apartment complex, prioritizing the evacuation of residents and a thorough search for any trapped individuals.As of now, no injuries have been reported. The LAFD is actively working to determine the origin and cause of the blaze.

Media Availability and Incident Command

LAFD PIO Captain Cody Weireter is en route to the scene to provide updates and answer questions from the media. The estimated time of arrival for Captain Weireter is 6:45 PM. Incident command is being coordinated across multiple units, including FS 7, Batt 12, and the Valley Bureau, serving council District 6.

Pro tip – During evacuations, residents should close doors behind them to help contain the fire’s spread and gather at designated meeting points for accountability.

Extensive Resource Deployment

A thorough list of responding units demonstrates the scale of the emergency response: AC4, AC40, BC10, BC12, BC14, BC15, E103, E207, E239, E273, E275, E287, E288, E289, E290, E298, E70, E77, E81, E87, E88, E89, E90, E98, EM14, EM15, EM5, EM9, HM87, HR3, PI3, RA81, RA828, RA83, RA898, RA98, RA99, T39, T73, T75, T87, T88, T89, T90, T98, UR88, UR89, CH9, 14, and 18. Margaret Stewart is also listed as being involved in the response.

The situation remains fluid, and updates will be provided as they become available.

Reader question – What are some of the challenges firefighters face when battling a fire involving both a commercial building and an apartment complex? share your thoughts.