Pacoima - Dark billowing smoke filled the north valley sky in this afternoon, as dozens of vehicles and out buildings caught fire in an auto salvage yard on Montague Street. 

At 5:39 PM on May 3, 2026, reports of smoke from or near a one story commercial building prompted a swift and large response from the LAFD. En route the blaze, the smoke was so thick and dark, Battalion 12 Chief Jason Getchius, requested MFC (Metropolitan Fire Communications) dispatch, to notify Whitman Airport out of concern for visibility and flight path safety. 

Upon arrival, fire crews found a large auto salvage/scrap yard with dozens of vehicles fully engulfed in flames. Access to the yard proved difficult due to multiple fences and protective barriers. Under the direction of Chief Getchius as Montague IC, all personnel was directed to begin defensive firefighting operations by erecting ladder pipes to overcome the high fences and begin dousing the flames as quickly as possible, while firefighters began the task of forcible entry. Successful entry at multiple points in the yard, allowed large diameter hand lines to be deployed, applying large volumes of water on the hot and fast burning blaze. 

Multiple explosions occurred due to combustible metals present in many of the vehicles, prompting additional caution for members making their way deeper into the yard. The presence of possible EV’s (electric vehicles) was also concerning for members, due to toxic off gassing and dangerous thermal runaway conditions consistent with these types of autos. 

Specialty units such as LAFD HazMat were requested to provide additional safety for the fire crews and surrounding community, by monitoring air quality and polluted water runoff. IC also deployed LAFD Unmanned Aerial Systems  (unmanned aerial vehicles/drones) providing the situational awareness which guides decisive decision making and tactical operations. 

At the height of the battle, over 100 firefighters fought to contain the fire as swiftly and safely as possible. After a well executed 1 hour and 7 minute fire fight, Montague IC declared a knockdown. Multiple units remained on scene for an extended period of time performing overhaul procedures, while the LA Department of Building and Safety  (LADBS) inspected the grounds/business for safety and structural integrity, which was deemed unsafe and “red-tagged” . No injuries to any firefighters were reported. The cause of the fire has not been identified.