On Tuesday, February 14, 2006 at 2:49 AM, six Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, two LAFD Rescue Ambulances, three Arson Units, one EMS Battalion Captain, and one Battalion Chief Officer Command Team under the direction of Battalion Chief Millage Peaks responded to a Structure Fire With a Civilian Fatality at 8407 South Ramsgate Avenue in Westchester.

Summoned by neighbors who were alerted to flames by a passing motorist, Firefighters arrived quickly to find a one-story single family dwelling well involved with fire.

As Firefighters began an aggressive attack on the interior of the structure, fellow Firefighters conducted coordinated ventilation operations on the roof. As Firefighters conducted their primary search of the occupancy, the body of an adult female was located within the residence. She was declared deceased at the scene. (video)

The fire was brought under control in just nineteen minutes. There were no other injuries reported.

Monetary loss from the fire is still being tabulated. The cause of the blaze remains under investigation. A positive identification of the decedent, as well as the precise cause, manner and time of her death will be determined by the Coroner's Office.

Submitted by Ron Myers, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department