Authorities are investigating after a man was found dead in a recreational vehicle fire in Playa del Rey on Saturday afternoon.
The man’s identity has not been released at this time.
The fire was reported on the shoulder of the road in the 13700 block of West Jefferson Boulevard just before 11:30 a.m., according to the Los Angeles Fire Department.
The RV was found along the Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve area.
Video shared on the Citizen app shows the motorhome completely destroyed by the fire as thick, black smoke billowed into the air.
Firefighters discovered a charred body inside the motorhome after extinguishing the flames. The man was pronounced dead at the scene.
At this time, LAPD is investigating the incident as an accidental death.
Locals say the ecological reserve area is known to attract residents who live in motor homes and RVs. City officials and residents in nearby Playa Vista and Playa del Rey have previously expressed concern over the encampment’s potential safety hazards.
“My emotion is intense frustration because it is unnecessary,” said Silver Hilman, a Playa Vista resident. “The city provides ample opportunity for people to be placed in certain environments where they are able to receive housing.”
Hilman also points out a sign that states the area is a no-parking zone, yet RV residents are seen parking overnight.
“How come I park my car two minutes over a meter and I get a $70 ticket, but they [RV homes] can stay here for four to five years with no repercussions?” asks Hilman.
District 11 Councilwoman Traci Park, released a statement on the incident saying:
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the tragic loss of life in the RV fire at the Ballona Wetlands today. I am well aware of the multiple fires, shootings, overdoses, and environmental degradation at this site. My team and I are actively working with our local and state partners to find solutions. I know you’re tired of excuses. So am I.”
L.A. Mayor Karen Bass also responded by Tweeting, “Our Community Response Team is offering assistance after this incident, which tragically reminds us of the urgency behind our work with
@TraciParkforLA to bring people inside.”
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.