Firefighter engulfed in flames as a massive explosion erupts beneath him while crews battle an intense structure fire in Los Angeles exactly one year ago! On this night we captured one of the craziest fire explosions we’ve ever witnessed as flames spread across multiple structures near Vermont Ave and Alondra Blvd around 5 AM mid August 2025. The fire involved a structure adjacent to an AT&T telecommunications facility, with flames ultimately affecting both buildings. The incident reportedly began outside before rapidly spreading and escalating into a major firefighting operation. Our footage shows firefighters positioned above the burning buildings on an aerial ladder, working over the roof as crews attempted to ventilate the structure and release intense heat, smoke and gases building inside. Firefighters could be seen using long-handled ventilation tools to open portions of the roof as heavy smoke poured from the building. Seconds later, accumulated smoke and combustible gases suddenly ignited in what appeared to be a backdraft or smoke explosion. A massive fireball erupted through the structure and around the firefighter working above it, briefly engulfing him in flames. A backdraft can occur when superheated, fuel-rich gases accumulate inside an oxygen-depleted structure and suddenly receive additional oxygen, causing explosive ignition. The exact cause of this explosion was not confirmed on scene. More than 100 firefighters ultimately responded, with crews remaining on scene for hours battling the flames and additional hazards. The fire also caused reported AT&T service disruptions and temporary issues affecting 911 service in Redondo Beach. No major injuries were reported on scene. Independent Los Angeles news coverage filmed exclusively by us, @caughtla. On-scene emergency and breaking news media coverage documenting incidents across Los Angeles. For footage licensing and media inquiries
