By DONNA BALANCIA
Music recording studios may need to rethink emergency escape plans following a fire that left two dead and two gravely injured in Studio City.
Efrem Demery was arrested on suspicion of murder related to a fire at Top Notch Studios in Studio City that killed two and gravely injured two others, officials said.
Robbery homicide detectives said 28-year-old Demery was arrested Saturday night on suspicion of murder and could also face arson charges. Demery was held without bail. Two were killed two were taken to the hospital in serious condition, officials said.
No motive is known yet. One of the deceased is victim Devaughn Kemar Carter, according to reports.
Top Notch Studios makes spaces for recording available for rent 24 hours a day. It’s located at 3779 N. Cahuenga Blvd. in Hollywood. The fire broke out shortly before 7 a.m. Saturday.
Typically, with soundproofing throughout the building, recording studios could be particularly dangerous in the event of fire. Padding and blankets not only muffle sound in potential rescue efforts but in some cases can be highly flammable.
Results of autopsies are not available yet. The case is under investigation.
Artists and people who rent space hope the landlord pays them back for their losses, according to a report from KNX1070 NewsRadio. The report said some tenants lost everything and all their gear. Some tenants told KNX there was no fire alarm and only one exit. About 12 people were in the studio at the time of the fire, reports indicate.
A press conference is scheduled for Monday afternoon.