Fire Destroys Beloved Historic Hollywood Landmark
Historic Hollywood Motel Destroyed by Fire
A significant piece of Los Angeles’ history has been lost as a fire ravaged the former Hollywood Center Motel on Sunset Boulevard, marking its second blaze in three months. The century-old structure, long vacated, now lies in ruins, sparking frustration among preservation advocates.
Firefighters responded to the incident on Sunday night, battling flames that engulfed the former motel, which dates back to at least 1905. Although the official cause of the fire has yet to be determined, the destruction has highlighted concerns regarding the building’s safety and oversight.
"This is just such a pointless loss. We call it demolition by neglect," stated Kim Cooper, a preservationist with Esotouric. The Hollywood Center Motel was once a prominent fixture in the area, appearing in films such as L.A. Confidential. However, it had become increasingly dilapidated in recent years, with preservationists noting that it had been fenced off and deteriorating.
Brian Curran of Hollywood Heritage expressed his disappointment, saying efforts to secure the building were repeatedly overlooked. "We had been getting on the city, the council office, and the building department to make this secure," he said.
Local residents echoed these concerns, describing the property and its vicinity as havens for trash and encampments. "Of course, squatters move in, set up camp and stay as long as they want," remarked nearby resident Keith Johnson.
Some individuals experiencing homelessness in the area indicated that abandoned structures often provide shelter from inclement weather. One man, identifying himself as "Midnight Love," speculated that a fire may have been started for warmth but quickly spiraled out of control. "The fire just got carried away," he said. "We don’t know who did it."
Cooper emphasized the need for accountability from property owners and city officials regarding enforcement actions. "I don’t blame homeless people for going to a place they can be safe for the night," she noted, expressing frustration with the lack of responsibility shown by the city towards owners of neglected properties.
The recent fire adds to a troubling trend of destructive blazes targeting vacant historic properties throughout Los Angeles. Before this latest incident, the Cultural Heritage Commission had plans to tour the Hollywood Center Motel this week, a tour that officials confirm will still proceed as scheduled.
