URGENT UPDATE: A devastating fire in a Long Beach apartment complex has resulted in the tragic loss of 32 cats and one dog this morning. The fire was reported at 7:15 a.m. on October 15, 2023, at the Lindenwood Apartment Complex located in the 3500 block of Linden Avenue, just north of East Wardlow Road.
According to the Long Beach Fire Department, firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke billowing from the third floor. The team quickly located the source of the fire and extinguished the flames before they could spread to other units. The affected apartment sustained significant damage, while some nearby residences experienced smoke damage.
Fortunately, there were no human injuries reported, but a resident has been displaced due to the destruction. Fire officials revealed that the pets were being fostered for adoption, as detailed by LBFD Capt. Jack Crabtree.
Investigators are currently on the scene working to determine the cause of the fire. The tragic loss of these animals has left the community in shock, highlighting the risks that can arise from residential fires.
Authorities are urging pet owners to ensure their homes are equipped with smoke detectors and fire safety measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.