Universal Studios reopens after fire

LOS ANGELES, June 2 (UPI) -- Universal Studios Hollywood reopened Monday even as Los Angeles investigators were trying to determine what caused the back lot fire.

The Sunday fire burned about two city blocks and caused estimated damages in the millions of dollars. Some 40 to 50 firefighters were still dousing hot spots and turning over charred walls looking for smoldering embers, the Los Angeles Times reported Monday.

The fire apparently began during an early morning film shoot at the studio, but the cause had yet to be determined, Fire Inspector Darryl Jacobs said.

Visitors were ready and waiting at the front gate Monday morning, speculating about how much of the destruction they would be allowed to see.

The fire that roared through the Universal Studios backlot in California Sunday will have little impact on film, TV and video production, studio officials said.

The blaze destroyed two New York and New England sets featured in movies like "Back to the Future," "When Harry Met Sally," "The Sting" and the upcoming "Changeling."

The Universal backlot sets used for "Desperate Housewives," "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" and "Life" escaped unscathed, however, two of the eight locations used on "Ghost Whisperer" were damaged in the blaze, a studio spokesman told the Times.

The series is now on hiatus, but expected to begin shooting its fourth season June 11.