Jobaaj Stories
North Hills T-Mobile Store Collapses After Hydrant Incident
A dramatic incident unfolded in North Hills, Los Angeles, on Sunday, March 16, 2025, when a pickup truck collided with a fire hydrant, leading to the partial collapse of a nearby T-Mobile store. The impact sheared the hydrant, causing a powerful geyser of water to flood the roof of the one-story building. The sheer volume of water compromised the building's structural integrity, resulting in a partial roof and wall collapse.
A Cascade of Events
The incident, reported around 3 p.m. near the intersection of Nordhoff Street and Sepulveda Boulevard, involved a dark-colored truck that veered off the road, striking not only the hydrant but also an electrical pole. Dramatic footage from the scene, including Citizen app uploads, showed water shooting high into the air before cascading onto the T-Mobile store. The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) responded swiftly, contacting the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) to shut off the water, the Department of Building and Safety to assess the damage, and SoCalGas to check for gas leaks. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.
Aftermath and Investigation
The T-Mobile store sustained significant damage, with the roof and at least two walls partially collapsing. Images and videos from the scene revealed extensive cracks and a compromised building structure. The LAPD is investigating the crash, with a focus on identifying the driver of the pickup truck who fled the scene. The building is considered a total loss and is slated for demolition. This incident highlights the importance of responsible driving and the potential for seemingly minor accidents to have devastating consequences.
Community Impact and Prevention
This event serves as a stark reminder of the critical role fire hydrants play in community safety. Remember to keep hydrants clear of obstructions, especially during winter weather. Clearing snow and debris around hydrants, as emphasized by local resident Lew La Chance, is vital for ensuring firefighters have quick and easy access to this vital water source during emergencies. The incident also underscores the importance of prompt responses from multiple city departments in coordinating effective emergency response and damage control.
