SLOFD Responds to a Structure Fire on Luneta Drive

Structure Fire on Luneta Drive Involving Lithium-Ion Batteries Under Investigation

On Friday, April 24, 2026, at approximately 9:57 AM, San Luis Obispo Fire Department Dispatch received multiple reports of a structure fire in the 400 block of Luneta Drive. Callers reported that a resident of a detached rear apartment had been injured and was pulled from the structure prior to fire personnel arrival.

San Luis Obispo City Fire and CAL FIRE crews responded and initiated fire suppression operations. As a precaution, a temporary shelter-in-place order was issued for the immediate area via Reverse 911. The order was lifted a short time later once conditions were deemed safe.

While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, lithium-ion batteries were identified as being involved, resulting in a thermal runaway event that compromised the integrity of the batteries.

The injured resident was transported by ground ambulance to Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center. Their condition is currently unknown.

The San Luis Obispo County Regional Hazardous Materials Team responded to assist with stabilization and safe handling of the compromised batteries. The batteries will be transported to a secure facility for proper disposal.

Residents in the surrounding area were allowed to return to their homes; however, the affected apartment unit was declared unfit for occupancy by a City Building Inspector.

The investigation is ongoing, and additional information will be released as it becomes available.

The Fire Department would like to remind the public of potential risks associated with lithium-ion batteries as well as proper storage and disposal. Lithium-ion batteries can become unstable when damaged and experience a thermal runaway emitting high heat, flame, and potentially hazardous fumes. Residents are advised if a battery is bulged, discolored, discharging any liquids or smells remove the battery to a safe location. Store any burnt batteries in a fireproof container, cover with sand or kitty litter, and store it in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from combustibles. Transport your burnt battery to a local household hazardous waste facility. Please visit www.iwma.com/batteries for more information.

For more information, please visit www.slocity.org/fire and follow the Fire Department on X and Instagram.