"Well coordinated and methodical efforts continue to fully extinguish deeply entrenched pockets of stubborn flames throughout the vacant and boarded 53,500-square-foot two-story commercial building."
That's how a Los Angeles fire official described the ongoing operation at a strip mall after 12 hours.
It wasn't the first time firefighters have battled a stubborn blaze at the vacant commercial building, KCAL reported.
Crews began working in defensive mode to prevent the flames from spreading to surrounding businesses, which included a hardware store and a Staples.
Firefighters expected they'd be there all night as heavy equipment was being brought in to help them gain access.
