Beverly Hills Fire Officials Rule Porta Via Blaze Accidental

An independent fire investigator retained by the Beverly Hills Fire Department has determined that the Christmas morning fire at Porta Via Restaurant in Beverly Hills was unintentional, city officials said.

According to the investigation conducted by Rappaport Consulting, the probable cause of the fire was spontaneous heating of oily rags that had been left in the area of origin. Investigators said oxidation of combustible material can generate heat, and when that heat is unable to dissipate, it can build to the point of ignition.

The report concluded that the area of fire origin was on the south side of the kitchen along the food preparation line. Investigators further identified the more specific point of origin as the upper surface of a commercial refrigerated food preparation table.

Fire officials said the findings were based on a comprehensive review of incident reports and transcripts, fire scene photographs and video, and witness statements gathered in the aftermath of the Dec. 25 fire.

No evidence of intentional or criminal activity was identified in the investigation, officials said. The City noted that spontaneous combustion involving improperly stored oily rags is a known fire risk in commercial kitchen environments.

Beverly Hills Fire Department officials said they continue to emphasize proper handling and storage of combustible materials as part of ongoing fire prevention outreach to local businesses, particularly within the restaurant and hospitality sector.

The City said the investigation findings close the determination phase of the incident, while any repairs or restoration at the restaurant remain subject to standard permitting and inspection requirements.