Multiple Firefighters Injured As Los Angles Building Explodes Into Flames

A criminal investigation was underway after a fiery explosion left 12 firefighters injured as they fought flames engulfing a single-story commercial building in the Toy District of downtown Los Angeles over the weekend, officials said.

The first flames were reported at 6:26 p.m. at 327 East Boyd St. Saturday, according to Los Angeles Fire Department Capt. Erik Scott.

Shortly after, firefighters arrived and began an offensive battle, an explosion was reported and multiple buildings became involved, leading crews to go into a defensive fight, Scott said.

"There was a significant explosion that caused a mayday report,’’ Scott explained. "This was upgraded to a major emergency category.’’

The explosion and fire are under active investigation by the LAFD’s arson and counter-terrorism unit, and the criminal conspiracy section of the Los Angeles Police Department’s Major Crimes Division, fire department spokesman Nicholas Prange said.