BUSINESS

Los Angeles warehouse demolition halted amid solar dispute

▪

Read, Watch or Listen

Los Angeles, California – Cleanup and demolition of a fire-damaged cold storage warehouse in the Boyle Heights neighborhood have been halted amid a dispute between facility operator Lineage Logistics and rooftop solar owner Altus Power. The 491,000-square-foot Lineage facility was destroyed by a weeklong fire that began on June 17, 2026, leaving behind an estimated 85 million pounds of decomposing food and prompting significant public health and environmental concerns. Lineage says it obtained emergency permits under an executive order from Mayor Karen Bass and a June 29 Los Angeles County public health directive, and was prepared to start tearing down the building on Friday. According to a letter Lineage CEO Greg Lehmkuhl sent to Mayor Bass and Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis, Altus Power ordered an immediate halt to the demolition the night before work was set to begin, saying the company wanted to preserve potential evidence. Lineage has publicly stated it believes the blaze started while contractors working for Altus Power were testing the rooftop solar array, while Altus Power disputes that conclusion and notes that investigators have not determined an official cause. The same rooftop solar panels previously caught fire in August 2024, in a smaller incident that was quickly extinguished. The latest delay has angered nearby residents and community advocates, who have endured weeks of toxic smoke and a foul odor from the rotting food.

Prepared by Christopher Adams and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Aug 2024 Rooftop solar panels previously caught fire
Jun 17, 2026 Weeklong warehouse fire begins
Late June 2026 Public health directive issued
Jun 29, 2026 County public health order formalized
This week Lineage secures emergency demolition permits
Thursday night Altus Power demands work halt
Friday planned demolition start is postponed
Today investigation continues into warehouse fire cause

Why This Matters to You

This warehouse fire affects your health and community. The rotting food and toxic smoke are public health hazards. If you live near Boyle Heights, stay informed. Check local news for updates and health advisories.

The Bottom Line

The dispute between Lineage and Altus Power is delaying cleanup, causing frustration for residents. It's a reminder that business disputes can impact communities. Worth forwarding if you know someone affected by this situation.