HOLLYWOOD, LOS ANGELES — Authorities have confirmed that a deadly house fire in Hollywood last week, which claimed the lives of two women, has been ruled an arson, according to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
The fire occurred early Wednesday morning at a residence on North Vista Del Mar Avenue, located just one block north of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) responded to reports of the blaze at approximately 2:55 a.m., officials said.
Fire crews arrived quickly and were able to bring the flames under control. During their search of the home, responders discovered a woman who had died inside the residence. Family members later identified her as 76-year-old Maria de Consuelo Alarcon.
A second woman was found at the scene and transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Authorities said she later died from her injuries. Her family confirmed her passing to CBS Los Angeles on Tuesday. Officials have not yet publicly released her identity, pending formal confirmation.
During a police commission meeting on Tuesday, LAPD officials stated that investigators have determined the fire was intentionally set. According to police, the arson is believed to be connected to a series of at least eight trash fires reported in the same area around the time of the incident.
Authorities have not released details about how the fire was started, and no suspect information has been made public. LAPD officials said the investigation remains active as detectives continue to review evidence and follow leads related to the case.
Law enforcement emphasized that arson investigations are complex and require careful coordination between fire investigators and police detectives. Officials are examining surveillance footage from the area, reviewing reports from nearby incidents, and speaking with potential witnesses to better understand what happened.
Local officials expressed condolences to the families and loved ones of the two women who lost their lives. They acknowledged the devastating impact such incidents have on families and communities, particularly when they occur in residential neighborhoods.
Residents in the area were urged to remain alert and report any suspicious activity to authorities. Police stressed that community cooperation can be crucial in identifying those responsible and preventing further incidents.
The LAPD and LAFD also reminded the public that fires, whether accidental or intentional, pose serious risks to life and property. Officials encouraged residents to report unattended fires, suspicious behavior, or unsafe conditions as soon as possible.
Authorities said they will continue to increase patrols and monitoring in the area as the investigation moves forward. Updates will be shared when verified information becomes available.
Community leaders called for patience and respect as investigators work to gather facts. They also asked the public to avoid speculation and rely on official sources for accurate information.
This incident has raised concerns among residents, particularly due to its reported connection to other fires in the neighborhood. Officials reassured the public that the situation is being taken seriously and that all available resources are being used to address the issue.
Anyone with information related to the fire or the series of trash fires in the area is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles Police Department. Authorities noted that even small details could be helpful to the investigation.
As the case continues, officials emphasized their commitment to accountability, public safety, and transparency. Further updates are expected as investigators make progress and more details are confirmed.
