Fearing another disaster like the Ghost Ship warehouse fire in Oakland crews from the city of Dana Point began an emergency demolition of the Dana Point Harbor Inn on Monday reported Erika Ritchie with the OC Register. City officials "expressed concerns that illegal activity by squatters in the vacant hotel could result in a fire leading to injuries or loss of life."
The vacant and dilapidated building which sits directly across from from Doheny State Beach and near Dana Point Harbor has been sitting empty after a series of fires.
Orange County Fire Authority ordered the demo after a recent inspection. The Register reports that inspectors say they found "propane cooking stoves in the vacant rooms, catacomb-like tunnels cut through walls and leading room to room, and drug paraphernalia."
The City Council on Tuesday is expected to ratify the demolition order. The tear-down will cost the city $200,000 and must be reimbursed by the property owner. If it is not, a lien will be placed on the property.
For a more in-depth look at the history of the hotel and what the city plans do, head over to our friends at the OC Register
Photos used by courtesy of the OC Register and photographer Ana Venegas