Crews battling large fire at strip mall in Woodland HIlls

WOODLAND HILLS, Calif. (FOX 11) - Firefighters are battling a large fire at a strip mall in the 20900 block of W. Victory Boulevard in Woodland Hills.

The fire broke out just before 5:30 p.m. with heavy smoke and flames showing. Firefighters mounted an aggressive attack. 

Victory Boulevard between De Soto Avenue and Independence Avenue are closed to traffic while firefighters try to get a handle on this blaze and prevent it from spreading.

Ambulances are standing by. It's unknown if anyone has suffered any injuries as a result of the fire.

The fire appears to have spread to the common attic at the one-story commercial complex making it difficult for crews to fight the fire. As a result, the Los Angeles Fire Department says this is now a defensive operation.

Firefighters are now operating large handlines and able to hit part of the fire from the back of the building.

Over 80 firefighters are working to save nearby businesses.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. No further details were immediately known.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.