California Governor Gavin Newsom claimed on Monday, November 13, that the large fire that closed a section of Interstate 10 freeway in Los Angeles was intentional.
Newsom stated at a press conference that an initial probe revealed "malice intent" and that it was "done and set intentionally," as reported by CNN. The governor did not disclose whether there were leads or suspects as the inquiry is ongoing.
Severe Effects on LA People, Economy
When the freeway was closed, LA Mayor Karen Bass said it was a crisis for a community that had traffic problems to begin with. Because of the ongoing closure of the freeway in both directions near Alameda Street in the heart of the city's business district, she recommended commuters to set aside extra time for their trips and research other routes.
Citizens were warned by citywide text message before Monday's morning commute to brace for heavy traffic since the expressway would be blocked indefinitely.
Toks Omishakin, the state's transportation secretary, estimated that more than 300,000 people, or about the entire population of Pittsburgh, use the highway route every day.
According to Newsom, it has major implications for the city's economy, as well as the health and safety of Los Angeles residents. "The impact to our schools, to vulnerable communities - all of that we take very seriously, and we're sober and mindful of the urgency to get this open."
See Also : California Gov. Gavin Newsom Issues State of Emergency Following Massive 10 Freeway Fire in LA
Public Alert Issued
The Los Angeles Fire Department reports that early Saturday morning, November 11, a fire broke out in a storage yard and quickly spread under the freeway to a second storage facility, where it engulfed about 80,000 square feet and destroyed several vehicles. The fire chief has confirmed that no one was hurt in the incident. The city is currently rushing to assess the safety of the roadway and repair the damage.
Bass has previously warned that the issue would not be fixed in one or two days, but there is still no expected timeframe for reopening the section of interstate.
The state's transportation agency recommended that residents work from home or use other modes of transportation if at all feasible. Public schools in the area will stay open, although the LA Unified School District has indicated that school bus routes may change.
The Port of Los Angeles urged visitors to plan for severe traffic Monday morning, noting updates and alternative routes.
After the shutdown, Newsom declared a state of emergency and said the state would examine the damage and start making repairs as soon as the site was accessible.
