COMMERCE, CA – In the early hours of Tuesday morning, a Denny’s restaurant in Commerce was engulfed in flames, prompting a swift response from local firefighters. The blaze, which erupted around 2 a.m., caused significant damage, resulting in a partial roof collapse. By 3:25 a.m., firefighters had managed to contain the fire, although its cause remains under investigation.
The Denny’s, located on the 7200 block of Gage Avenue, was open at the time the fire broke out. Fortunately, the two employees present managed to escape unharmed. No customers were inside the restaurant when the incident occurred. A nearby Best Western Plus hotel, situated on the same property, was also affected by the emergency.
Guests at the hotel reported hearing an explosion before being evacuated as a precaution. “It was a frightening experience,” recalled one guest. “We were alerted to the fire and had to leave our rooms immediately. The sight of the flames was shocking.”
Firefighters worked diligently to prevent the fire from spreading to the hotel, ensuring the safety of its occupants. “The quick response of the emergency personnel was crucial in keeping the situation under control,” said a hotel spokesperson.
As the morning unfolded, fire crews remained on site, dousing the remnants of the blaze and ensuring no further flare-ups. The investigation into the fire’s origin is ongoing, with officials examining potential causes.
The incident has left the Denny’s building severely damaged, with repairs expected to take several months. Meanwhile, the hotel has resumed normal operations, offering its guests assurances of their safety.
Residents and business owners in the area expressed relief that no one was injured. The community is now focused on supporting the affected employees and ensuring the restaurant’s eventual reopening.
The investigation is expected to continue in the coming days as authorities piece together the events leading up to the fire. The community is hopeful for a swift resolution and the return of normalcy.