On Monday, May 20, the police stated that a commercial building in El Monte caught fire. Firefighters who were sent to check if the fire had spread to a nearby building discovered that at least 500 marijuana plants were illegally grown inside.
Jacob Salmon from the El Monte Police Department mentioned that no individuals were found inside the marijuana house located in the 2700 block of Seaman Avenue. The marijuana plants were found scattered across three rooms, and the lobby area appeared to be a small living space.
Salmon further explained that the building where the fire broke out is in the 2600 block of Seaman Avenue, and marijuana plants were also found there in February. Currently, there is no one in that building.
He also mentioned that the marijuana house discovered on Monday was supposed to be vacant as well.
Los Angeles County Fire Department spokesperson Geovanni Sanchez stated that they received the fire alarm at 12:12 pm, and the fire was completely extinguished by 12:53 pm. Fortunately, no one was injured in the fire.
The fire caused damage to the building, including the roof. Sanchez also mentioned that the cause of the fire is still unknown, and they are unable to provide an estimate of the losses.