Woodland Hills

WOODLAND HILLS—On January 13, local general contractor, R.D. Olson of R.D. Olson Construction broke ground on a $62 million affordable housing complex. De Soto will be located at 6033 De Soto Avenue and will have 207 units. Project plans indicate that De Soto will be a 271,568 square foot project built from a wood structure with five stories of apartments built above a double concrete podium parking garage. The new apartments will be available with one-, two-, and three-bedroom options. R.D. Olson partnered with the Meta Housing Corporation bringing affordable housing to the Warner Center. The Alcove is located at 21300 W. Oxnard Street. This project marks the fourth affordable housing development from this partnership. Previous joint efforts include Lamp Lodge located at 660 S. Stanford St. in downtown Los Angeles, Stony Oaks Apartments located at 2542 Old Stony Point Rd., in Santa Rosa, and the Alcove in the Warner Center. The President of R.D. Olson Construction issued the following statement regarding the new housing development plans for Woodland Hills. “Los Angeles faces one of the nation’s most severe affordable housing shortages, with families and working professionals priced out of safe, quality housing,” said Bill Wilhelm, President of R.D. Olson Construction. “Through our expanded partnership with Meta Housing Corporation, De Soto will deliver 207 homes for families earning between 30-70% of Area Median Income. Combined with The Alcove, we’re contributing over 500 units to Warner Center’s transformation into a more inclusive, transit-connected community and addressing both immediate needs and long-term affordability goals.” Like the Alcove, De Soto will be built in one phase over a 24-month period with the anticipated completion expected to be in early 2028. The amenities of De Soto include a community room with workstations, and a children’s play area for working families and outdoor gathering space with courtyard to foster a sense of community in the complex. High-efficiency HVAC and central boiler systems will be used to reduce energy consumption and reduce long-term operating costs for residents. Cool Roof-rated roofing material that reflects light reflects sunlight, absorbs less heat and reduces cooling costs. On his webpage, R.D. Olson spoke of the need for affordable housing in the area. The full text may be found on his website. “The housing crisis in California continues to rise, especially with the tragic fires that just took place in the Greater Los Angeles region. We are now looking at an unprecedented number of unhoused individuals on top of the lack of supply of housing that was already present in California. A notable example is an affordable housing project we completed last year are the West Carson Villas. Located in South Bay, a quieter coastal residential region approximately 13 miles south of Downtown, West Carson Villas provides 111 units of supportive housing to residents earning 30 and 60 percent of the area median income (AMI). Not only is the Gold LEED certified project, but] it also incorporates solar panels, energy-saving appliances and a hot water recirculation system. These environmental standards, among others, are incorporated into our projects throughout Los Angeles and California as a whole.”   By Sharon  

WOODLAND HILLS—On Wednesday, January 7, the Los Angeles Fire Department battled a kitchen fire in Woodland Hills.

The fire was reported at 3:07 p.m. at 20763 W Dolorosa St. at a one-story, single-family dwelling with light smoke initially showing.

The Kitchen fire extinguished in 12 minutes by first-arriving companies. LAPD and DOT attached for traffic control — motorists were asked to find alternate routes while fire companies remain on scene for overhaul. There were no reports of any injuries. The exact cause of the fire is under investigation.

 

By Danny Jones

WOODLAND HILLS—On Tuesday, December 30, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that 1:24 p.m. they battled a single-family dwelling fire in Woodland Hills. The fire was reported at 4996 N. Llano Drive.

The fire involved a one-story property with moderate smoke showing from the attic upon arrival of firefighters. Firefighters proceeded in the offensive mode, coordinating interior fire attack and roof ventilation to achieve knockdown of flames in 24 minutes by first-arriving companies.

There were no other structures exposed, or any injuries reported by officials. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

By Danny Jones

SANTA MONICA—On Thursday, December 24, the National Weather Service office in Los Angeles and Oxnard, CA issued a weather alert at 9:04 a.m. about thunderstorms expected to strike the Eastern Santa Monica Mountains Recreational area and the Western San Fernando Valley.

The storm will include torrential rain pours. It will be accompanied by hail of about one quarter of an inch and strong winds of up to 55 miles an hour.

Areas affected by this alert include Pacific Palisades, Woodland Hills, Canyon Road through the Santa Monica Mountains, Mandeville Canyon, Reseda, Tarzana, Encino, Canoga Park, Calabasas, Topanga, and Winnetka.

The NWS advises anyone who is outside to seek shelter. This is not just because of the strong winds but because the torrential rain might cause flooding. In addition, it recommends that anyone who is traveling avoid using flooded roads.

As the storm might intensify, the National Weather Service suggests that people monitor television stations and local radio stations for further information about the storm as well as possible warnings.

By Daniel Diquinzio

WOODLAND HILLS—On December 4, at 7:34 a.m., a fire was reported at 6320 N. Canoga Avenue. Multiple units from the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) responded to the call. Initial reports indicate that an electric fire broke out on the 10th floor of the 17-story building. No smoke/flames were visible from the street. Firefighters took the stairs to the 10th floor. According to the LAFD/Alert page, a knockdown was declared approximately 30 minutes after LAFD’s arrival. Three individuals who worked in the building were transported to an area hospital with significant burns. They were all in serious condition. At 9:45 a.m. LAFD personnel gave an update to notify the public that the fire was extinguished. OSHA was notified since this was a work-related fire. Firefighters and one engine remained on the scene to monitor the smoke/air monitoring, assess the damage, and ensure public safety.   By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Monday, November 10, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that they battled a structure fire in Woodland Hills. The fire was reported at 4:03 p.m. at 6020 N. Woodlake Avenue at a two-story, detached ADU with fire on the second floor.

By 4:21 p.m. the fire was reported knocked down. A total of 38 firefighters located a contents fire in one room on the 2nd floor and extinguished it in 18 minutes. There were no reports of any injuries. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

 

By Danny Jones

 

WOODLAND HILLS—On Friday, October 24, officers with the Los Angeles Police Department chased a suspect driving under the influence in a Nissan Sentra sedan traveling at speeds near 110 miles per hour. As the chase continued, this driver ran several red lights, moved onto surface streets, and darted through traffic. The chase began in North Hollywood around 7 p.m., and officers followed the vehicle into Woodland Hills and then into the Thousand Oaks region. The chase ended when the driver pulled over near the SeaCliff Avenue exit on the 101 freeway. The suspect, Luchiano Antonio Lewis Villanueva was taken into custody by police. He was arrested for suspicion of being under the influence of drugs and for several felony charges. No additional details about the case has been disclosed to the public.   By Daniel Diquinzio

WOODLAND HILLS—On October 21, CCI Developers announced that Livelle Mulholland, a luxury senior housing facility is coming soon to Woodland Hills. CCI is expected to break ground on senior housing property during the second quarter of 2026 and is slated to open to residents during the second half of 2028. Livelle Mulholland will be located on the corner of Mulholland Drive and Valmar Road. The facility will feature 290 units, over 200 of which are to be allocated for independent living, 16 assisted living apartments, and 13 memory care units. The amenities include an underground-attached parking garage, a gourmet restaurant, a rooftop lounge, and a fitness center with therapy pools. Outdoor game courts, natural trails, and seven villas. In addition, there will be indoor and outdoor theaters and classrooms. The following description of the new senior living facility comes directly from CCI Investment: “Project Highlights Scheduled to break ground in 2026, The Livelle is backed by CCI’s expertise in senior living and development. This new construction project will offer spacious residences and a suite of luxury amenities, emphasizing wellness and holistic living. Residents will have access to premium facilities that enhance daily life, aligning with CCI’s commitment to creating top-tier senior communities. Features and Amenities The Livelle is thoughtfully designed to support a lifestyle of wellness and relaxation, featuring a resort-style pool, gourmet dining options, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and lush outdoor spaces. As a life plan community, it is uniquely suited for seniors who value convenience, engagement, and luxury.” The building materials used are cement over steel to create structurally sound buildings to be combined with a resort-estate feel that lends itself to an atmosphere seniors would admire. LCS will manage the life care community intended only for those over 60 years of age. Project partners include the following: Perkins Eastman as architect, KPFF as engineer, Envicom as environmental and land planner, LRM as landscape architect, Carlberg Associates as horticulturist and Brenner Consulting Group as permit administrator.   By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Monday, October 6, jewelry store owner, Ali Sedaghat, was leaving Poquito Mas, Mexican Restaurant located at 21049 Ventura Boulevard when he pulled over to check on a flat tire. Three men wearing ski masks drove up in a van approached and robbed him of nearly $200,000 worth of jewelry. Mr. Sedaghat is a fine jewelry designer who owns Star Jewelry in Los Angeles. Reports indicate that unbeknownst to him, his tire had been slashed. The thieves waited for him to stop and check on the tire before jumping out of their van and robbing him. The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating the matter. Canyon News reached out to LAPD Topanga Division for more information but did not hear back in time for print. Police are asking for more information from those who may have been in the area to properly identify the suspects and bring them to justice.   By Sharon

LOS ANGELES—Our Congressional Representative, Brad Sherman (D) CA-32, has been in Washington, D.C. for 15-Terms, 30-Years. Do you know who he is? He is a living example of what you get when you live in a one-party state with no congressional term limits. He has been around forever and done nothing. No decision he has ever made in three decades has been seriously challenged by anyone. He has had to show no accountability…and he has made many unbelievably bad and costly decisions for us. And now, he has left us in a mess.

Sherman has learned how to “quietly” do nothing. He distances himself from controversy. He’s not a leader…He’s a follower. Not a thinker…A party “yes man.” He always shows up one day too late to act as if he’s helping, but instead, he awkwardly just stands there doing nothing with his goofy smile.

How much has he cost you personally? As a senior member of the House Financial Services Committee, Sherman has consistently led the fight to kill Bitcoin and all Cryptocurrencies. In fact, having so many financial institutions as supporters, he has advocated “outlawing” digital currencies. So, as it turns out, he has been on the wrong side of history for over 15 years. He has tried to stop the future. Bitcoin started trading in July of 2010 for $0.05 per coin. If you had bought just one Bitcoin, then or even in 2016 (just nine years ago) for $400 a coin it would be worth $124,005 today. So much for his negative rhetoric, hollow scare tactics, financial advice, and proposed killer legislation.

He chimed in with the Joe Biden and Kamala Harris LIE that the border was secure when in fact it wasn’t, and they knew it. He kept silent when Biden struggled mentally in his campaign. He claims to support Israel…sometimes. He continues to stall in leading a solution to the Metro Transit Project connecting the San Fernando Valley to LA’s West side. The endless delays have been bogged down by his accountant-due-diligence mentality instead of having an assertive vision with momentum to get it done.

As a career politician who has never earned more than $174,000 a year, he has a home in Los Angeles and a home in Washington, D.C. worth an estimated $14 Million dollars. How is that mathematically possible? Well, I said he was an accountant.

Regarding the Palisades and Malibu fires, I agree with real estate billionaire and former LA Mayoral candidate, Rick Caruso, who proclaims, “If it’s predictable it’s preventable.” Sherman and Mayor Karen Bass, both career politicians, don’t practice preventive governance, but instead, they rely on remedial governance.

Sherman claims and implies that Sherman Oaks and Sherman Way were named after him and his family. That’s simply a lie. Sherman Oaks and Sherman Way were named after General Moses Hazeltine Sherman (1853-1932). He was a land developer and entrepreneur from Vermont who came to California in the late 1800s and founded Sherman Oaks development. If Brad Sherman will lie about a town being named after him and his family, what else will he lie about?

It’s time for a change. My name is Larry Thompson, and I am running for United States Congress. This will be my second attempt to unseat Sherman. In the recent 2024 election, I received over 108,000 votes, which is the most votes ever received by a candidate running against him.

With your help, I plan to defeat him this time.

I am a Christian first. A Conservative second. A Republican third.

I am a member of Turning Point USA and Stand With Crypto . I am a compassionate, intelligent, experienced businessman who uses Common Sense. I am running for Congress to awaken, organize, and unite the dissatisfied Democratic voter, the canceled conservative voter, and the undecided No Party Preference voter. Visit: www.LarryThompsonForCongress.com

I have been endorsed by the California Republican Party, the Los Angeles County Republican Party, the Ventura County Republican Party, California Young Republicans, California College Republicans, Los Angeles County Young Republicans, the American Independent Party, Brock Pierce, Chairman of the Bitcoin Foundation, David Hernandez, Chairman of the Los Angeles Hispanic Republican Club, and Regional Vice Chair of CAGOP’s Los Angeles County, and Kelsey Grammer, among many others. Visit my 32-Point Political Vision at Larry Thompson For Congress – 32 Points

Democrats and Non-Party Preference voters, I believe I will earn all or most of the Republican votes, but I cannot win without your votes also. You have voted for Sherman for 30 years…! What about giving me a shot? My term would only be for two years. If I don’t do a better job than him, vote me out in 2028 and put him or another Democrat back in.

California’s District 32, where I am running against Sherman, encompasses at this time the communities of Bel-Air, Bell Canyon, Beverly Glen, Brentwood, Canoga Park, Chatsworth, Encino, Malibu, North Hills, Northridge, Pacific Palisades, Reseda, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Tarzana, Topanga, West Hills, Winnetka, and Woodland Hills. The district traditionally trends Democratic by a large margin of 70-30.

I know, it’s difficult to make a party change. Change isn’t just difficult. Sometimes, it feels impossible.

You know the feeling. You make a bold decision — to eat healthier, end a toxic relationship, move to a new city, leave that job, start that business, finally go after the life you keep pretending, you’re not afraid of. You start out strong, your heart full of conviction. But weeks—or even days—later, you find yourself back where you started, sabotaging your progress or convincing yourself it was never worth it anyway. And then comes the shame.

You wonder why everyone else seems to manage change so gracefully while you’re drowning in self-doubt. You ask yourself, “What’s wrong with me?” But the truth is: nothing is wrong with you. Change is not a straight path. It is a reckoning. A grief. A rebirth. A neurological, psychological, and emotional storm that stirs up every part of your identity. It’s not that you’re weak. It’s that you’re human.

American author, speaker, and pastor, Dr. John Maxwell, says, “When it comes to change, there are three seasons of timing: People change 1. when they hurt enough that they have to, 2. when they learn enough that they want to, and 3. when they receive enough that they are able to.”

Are you in any one of these three seasons?

Isn’t it time you tried something new to build a future for you and your children? Sometimes the person that brought you here isn’t the person you need to guide you forward.

Think about it. Vote for change. Vote for Larry Thompson for Congress.

Please contribute to our campaign: https://secure.anedot.com/larry-thompson-for-congress/donate.

Larry Thompson For Congress

23838 Pacific Coast Highway, #273

Malibu, CA 90265
(310) 288-0700 Office
(310) 991-0747 Mobile

E-mail: Larry@LarryThompsonForCongress.com
Corporate Website: http://www.LarryThompsonOrg.com
Campaign Website: http://www.LarryThompsonForCongress.com
Donate: https://secure.anedot.com/larry-thompson-for-congress/donate

Written By Larry Thompson

 

By Staff

WOODLAND HILLS—On Friday, August 1, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported a kitchen fire erupted at the Blu Jam Cafe at 4:31 p.m. The establishment is located at 23311 W. Mulholland Dr.

The fire was inside one unit in a one-story strip mall. Companies on scene reported heavy smoke from the restaurant and requested additional companies, including help from Los Angeles County Fire resources that were nearby at the time of incident origin. DOT was notified for traffic control.

By 5:04 p.m., the kitchen fire in the Blu Jam Cafe was declared extinguished in 33 minutes. A total of 117 firefighters on scene were able to confine the fire to just one unit, preventing spread to the rest of the strip mall.

Companies remained on the scene for overhaul and salvage of any property that is possible — expect traffic to be affected in the area. There were no reports of any injuries.

Blu Jam Cafe was established in 2006. On their website, the establishment states:

“Fresh ingredients including produce are delivered all week long at each of our locations. We strive to serve the best, so we source the best. We take pride in partnering with smaller companies, farms and purveyors because we believe in attention to detail, quality and service. This is the Blu Jam way.

Some of our friends include Babe Farms, Grimmway Farms, Lili Farms, Milo’s Poultry Farms, Creekstone Farms, Wild Isles, Butternut Mountain, Bar-M, Chasin Foods, Caffe LA, Kaena Wines, and the list continues to grow as we go.”

They have locations in Hollywood, Downtown LA, Brentwood, Sherman Oaks, Woodland Hills and Atwater Village.

By Danny Jones

TOPANGA CANYON/WOODLAND HILLS—On Monday, July 14, it was reported that Samuel Haskell IV, the son of famed producer Hollywood producer and agent, Samuel Haskell III, killed himself while in prison over the weekend. Haskell IV was 37 years old. According to TMZ, Haskell IV used a razor to take his life.

Samuel was found dead in his cell on Saturday, July 12, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office disclosed. He was charged with three counts of murder as well as the special circumstance allegation of multiple murders. Haskell was facing life in prison without the possibility of parole for his crimes and he was scheduled to appear in court on Monday, July 14 for a preliminary hearing.

Had the case proceeded to a preliminary hearing, the District Attorney’s Office would have presented the following evidence that Haskell IV, was in prison for killing and dismembering his wife and dumping the body, in addition to murdering her parents.

On or about November 6, 2023, he murdered and dismembered his 37-year-old wife, Mei Li Haskell, killed her mother, Yanxiang Wang, 64, and her stepfather Gaoshan Li, 71, in the Tarzana home they all shared.

The following day, Haskell hired and paid $500 to several day laborers to take away heavy black plastic trash bags from his home in Tarzana. After driving away from the home, the workers opened one of the bags and saw human body parts. The workers returned the bags and money to Haskell, took pictures of the defendant, the bags and the front of the residence, then alerted police. When authorities responded to the home to conduct a welfare check, no one was there, and the bags were gone.

Later the same afternoon, he was recorded on video a short distance from his home driving into a parking lot, removing a large trash bag similar to the one returned by the day laborers from the trunk of his Tesla, and disposing of this bag into a trash dumpster in Encino before driving away.

On November 9, 2023, the Los Angeles Police Department revealed they identified and arrested Haskell IV for murder, in connection to the unidentified female torso found in the area of Ventura Boulevard and Rubio Avenue.

On November 8, 2023, around 6 a.m., an individual looking through dumpster bins found a bag containing a woman’s torso, prompting the police to be called. The investigation provided detectives with information that led them to a residence in the 4100 block of Coldstream Terrace in the West Valley area.

The home was forensically processed for evidence and detectives discovered that the location was the family residence where the suspect lived with his wife, Mei Lei Haskell, his in-laws and three children. The children were located and are being cared for by family members.

Investigators determined he rented the Airbnb in October for the time period between November 6 to November 18, 2023. A Home Depot receipt dated October 20, 2023, for the purchase of plywood, canopy, moisture barrier, coveralls and diamond-saw blades was found in his wallet.

Inside the rented vehicle, police found a .357 loaded revolver inside a holster, 32 rounds of live ammunition, a blood-encrusted military-style knife, a headlamp and firearm sight and passports for himself, his wife Mei and their three children. DNA analysis of blood on the military knife matched to all three victims, while blood stains on the firearm matched the genetic profiles of Mei Li and Gaoshan Li. A search warrant was served on the defendant’s office where detectives found $67,000 in cash.

Additionally, law enforcement learned in reviewing the defendant’s cell phone extraction that Haskell Jr. had been having an affair with a 27-year-old woman who they interviewed. He told her in October 2023 that his children would soon be living with his parents.

On November 2, the defendant asked her to accompany him on a trip to Japan. Homicide detectives recovered a one-way ticket to Japan purchased by Haskell Jr. on October 21, 2023. The following day, Haskell Jr. purchased a roundtrip ticket for his girlfriend to accompany him from November 28 to December 12, 2023. The remains of Yanxiang Wang and Gaoshan Li have never been found.

Samuel’s father has worked for high profile celebrities like Dolly Parton and Whoopi Goldberg. Haskell IV was booked for 187 (a) PC-Murder and is currently being held on $2 million dollar bail.

According to the New York Post, Haskell IV was known to have a large cache of weapons in his home. He shot many films that have been posted on his Facebook and TikTok pages that include violence and the fetishization of Asian women. Brandi Glanville, the former star of the reality series, “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” appears on a scene in one of those films.

By Danny Jones

WOODLAND HILLS—On Tuesday, July 1, at 8:29 p.m., the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Valley Bureau responded to a call of a fire at a three-story townhome located at 21801 W. Burbank Boulevard. First responders arriving at the scene discovered fire on both the 2nd and 3rd stories as the first story was for parking only.

At 8:55 p.m., the LAFD website, alert page reported that the fire had escalated the status of the fire as a Greater Alarm Structure Fire. One pet was rescued by firefighters who were able to evaluate the animal as other firefighters prevented further spread of the fire.

The 9:00 p.m. update on the Knockdown Greater Alarm Structure Fire reported the fire was fully extinguished in 31 minutes. Reports indicated that the animal of an undetermined species was under evaluation.

In the 9:30 p.m. update, firefighters reported no humans were harmed in the fire. The pet rescued was confirmed to be a feline. LAFD reported that the “Cat was gently transferred to the care of the homeowner.” The cause of the fire is under investigation.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Tuesday, June 24, the Los Angeles Police Department Topanga Division Burglary detectives are asking for the public’s help locating the suspects who stole movie footage during a recent burglary.

The LAPD reported on May 26, between 2 a.m. and 2:40 a.m., the suspects entered a home in the 22000 block of Wyandotte Street. The location was being used to produce a movie. The suspects took three hard drives containing unedited video footage recorded for a movie.

Anyone with details about the crime is asked to contact Topanga Burglary Detective Roel at 818-756-5844. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247).

Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Danny Jones

WOODLAND HILLS—On Monday, June 23, 2025, the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office announced that Monica Sementilli was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for orchestrating the 2017 murder of her husband, renowned hairdresser Fabio Sementilli.

The sentencing took place in Department 101 of the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center.

A jury previously found Sementilli guilty of first-degree murder with special circumstance allegations of financial gain and lying in wait, as well as conspiracy to commit murder on April 11, 2025. She sobbed in court as the verdict was read.

Evidence presented at trial showed that she conspired with her lover, Robert Louis Baker, to murder her 49-year-old husband, Fabio, in order to collect millions in life insurance benefits.

On January 23, 2017, Baker fatally stabbed Fabio as he sat on his backyard patio in Woodland Hills before fleeing the scene in Sementilli’s Porsche, which was later found abandoned. Baker previously pleaded guilty to murder and conspiracy to commit murder and was also sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole

Fabio was a well-known celebrity hairdresser. He shared three children with the defendant, Gessica, Isabella and Luigi.

The Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery-Homicide Division led the investigation.

By Danny Jones

WOODLAND HILLS—An armed suspect was shot by officers from the Los Angeles Police Department after a chase on Monday, May 26.

The incident started after 7 a.m. in the San Fernando Valley in the area of Sherman Way and Woodman Avenue in Van Nuys. The woman was driving a white van with three dogs, when individuals reported seeing gunshots in the vehicle by Norm’s restaurant.

The LAPD was contacted, who tried to speak to the individual who pointed a gun to her head before fleeing the scene.

The woman was driving through red lights and on the wrong side of the road, as well as the curb to evade police. The chase halted near Arcana Road and Marmora Street, where a barricaded situation transpired for close to 45 minutes as the suspect, laid on a person’s porch. According to reports, authorities tried to calm the woman who kept the gun to her head, while on her van, as she screamed and yelled.

Details on what prompted officers to fire at the woman has not been disclosed to the public. The woman’s dogs fled after she was shot causing her behavior to become more erratic, according to reports. There were no additional injuries reported during the incident.

The Los Angeles Fire Department reported at 8:13 a.m. that they transported one patient, at 20935 W. Arcana Road, a 42-year-old female in serious condition to a local hospital for treatment. The woman was listed in serious condition.

By Danny Jones

WOODLAND HILLS, CALIFORNIA—On May 13, Tamara Bedoy, Director of Blue Cross Blue Shield of California reported that her Amazon delivery driver left something extra on her front porch.

Bedoy’s husband reportedly intercepted the porch delivery as it was a gift ordered for his wife left on Mothers-Day weekend. The extra deposit prompted the family to investigate further.

Bedoy reported the incident describing it as essentially human feces and urine, calling it “disgusting.” A brief check on the home security camera confirmed the poop was not from a wild variety, an animal of some sort. The camera captured the moment the Amazon driver wearing the symbolic Amazon vest, left the package on the porch, dropped her drawers, and then defecated.

Reports indicate that the deposit made was not exclusive to the Bedoys. A neighbor a few blocks caught video footage of the same Amazon Delivery woman dropping her pants and pooping at their residence as well.

Amazon reportedly apologized to the customers affected by the delivery driver’s behavior calling it, “deeply disturbing,” and confirmed that the driver was not a direct employee, but worked through an independent contractor. She was immediately identified and has since been relieved of her duties. She will not be delivering on behalf of Amazon any longer.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Tuesday, May 6, Christopher Austin, 39, the third person of interest was sentenced to 15 years in prison for his part in the January 2017 stabbing death, of renowned hairstylist and Wella trainer, 49-year-old, Fabio Sementilli.

In January, Austin pleaded no contest to second-degree murder.

In April, Monica Sementilli, 53, was found guilty by a jury of first-degree murder as the mastermind of her husband’s murder for financial gain.

In 2023, Monica Sementilli’s lover, Robert Louis Baker, 63, pleaded no contest to one count each of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and the allegations of financial gain while lying in wait.

Baker, a convicted sex offender, and former adult film actor admitted to a jury that he and his lifelong friend, Christopher Austin stabbed Fabio Sementilli to death in his own home.

Fabio Sementilli was a hairstylist for the rich and famous. In addition to his wealth, he had a substantial life insurance policy his wife would benefit from. She reportedly left the door open for Baker and Austin to let themselves in and commit the murder.

Baker and Austin reportedly attempted to make it look like a robbery, ditched their clothes, and left town after leaving the residence.

According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Inmate Locator, Monica Sementilli, now 45, has been charged with felony murder and has had scheduled court dates on: August 28, 2017, February 15, 2018, September 17, 2024, February 3, 2025, and is expected in court next on June 23, 2025, for final sentencing.

On June 14, 2017, Robert Louis Baker was charged with felony murder and was given a sentencing date of September 28, 2017, and was court-ordered to prison on July 10, 2023, to complete his sentence. His last court date was January 6, 2025.

Christopher Austin was charged with felony murder on October 17, 2024. On May 6, Austin was committed to State prison to complete his sentence.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Friday, May 9, at 11:00 a.m. the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Chief of Police, Jim McDonnell and LAPD Commander Divyesh Shah, and Operations Bureau Homicide Lieutenant Guy Golan held a press conference at LAPD Headquarters to update the public on the recent murder investigation at Valley Village Apartments in Woodland Hills.

The following information came directly from LAPD and has been posted in full text in a press release that may be found on the LAPD website.

The investigation has, “revealed that the suspect accessed the victim’s residence by entering through a skylight in an adjacent vacant apartment and traversing the balconies. A physical altercation occurred between the suspect and the victim, which ultimately resulted in the victim’s death”.

Operations-Valley Bureau Homicide assumed investigative responsibility for the case. Following an exhaustive investigation, homicide detectives identified the suspect as:

Erick Escamilla, a 27-year-old male, Hispanic, with black hair, brown eyes, standing five feet six inches tall and weighing approximately 170 pounds. His date of birth is October 7, 1997.

Escamilla was allegedly seen on Ring doorbell video trying to get into apartments using a screwdriver. The LAPD also released images of the suspect showing him wearing a dark-colored jacket and a hat.

On May 8, 2025, the FBI Task Force, along with Valley Bureau Homicide detectives, located Erick Escamilla at a local hospital. He is currently receiving medical treatment.

According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department website, Inmate Locator, Escamilla has a criminal history.

On December 6, 2024, Escamilla was arrested by San Fernando Police Department on felony charges.  Booking records read, “Case Adjudicated.” He was subsequently released on December 26, 2024.

On February 17, 2025, Escamilla was placed under citizen’s arrest on misdemeanor charges and released after spending the night in jail.

On May 7, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) initiated an internal investigation after officers were dispatched to Valley Village Apartments in Woodland Hills, on what seemed like a ploy, until a deceased man’s body was found a day later.

This unsolved crime report was first reported on April 26 and updated on May 1.

LAPD officers responded to a call for a welfare check in the 12600 block of Riverside Drive. Responding officers discovered a deceased male, later identified as Menashe, “Manny,” Hildra.

New reports indicate that the body found in the apartment is believed to have been
deceased before the officer’s initial discovery of the corpse.

Detectives reportedly found blood outside the apartment complex. In addition, LAPD
received calls at this apartment complex the week prior.

LAPD Chief McDonnell made the following statement regarding this investigation:

“Officers responded to a radio call of an assault with a deadly weapon in progress. They did
not hear or see any signs of disturbance. They were not able to make contact with anyone
inside, so the officers cleared the location.”

Multiple social media reports of someone on the roof. Another report indicated that someone was attempting to break into the empty apartment unit next door.

Reports indicate that it was the next day when a neighbor requested a welfare check, that
police found the body of Menashe Hidra. His death was ruled a homicide.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On May 3, three illegal immigrants from the eastern European country of Georgia were arrested in connection to the burglary and murder of a Woodland Hills man. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents previously had detainers placed on all three perpetrators. The suspects were protected by sanctuary laws. Authorities ignored the detainers to have the men deported.

It was almost 1:00 a.m. on April 26, when Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers responded to a call of a burglary in Woodland Hills. Responding officers found Aleksandre Modebadze, 47, lying on the floor of his home, unconscious. LAFD paramedics declared him dead at the scene.

Paata Kochyashvili, 38, Zaza Otarashvili, 46, and Besiki Khutsishvili 52, reportedly broke into Modebadze’s Woodland Hills home, held him captive, and bludgeoned him to death.

FOX11 first obtained the following information from Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons who indicated that two of the three suspects were previously caught entering the country illegally. One had a $3,000 immigration bond, the other “promised,” to check in with ICE agent. The third suspect’s tourist visa expired. He had two ICE detainers on him for drug and burglary charges.

ICE agents with the assistance of the FBI, located and arrested the suspects. Two were arrested in Glendale, the third was arrested close to Sepulveda Boulevard and Burbank, in Van Nuys. Bail is set at $2 million.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—It was announced on Friday, April 11, by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office that Monica Sementilli was convicted by a jury for murdering her husband, famed hairdresser Fabio Sementilli in 2017. She sobbed in court as the verdict was read.

After a 10-week trail, jurors found defendant Monica Sementilli guilty of one count of murder with special circumstance allegations that the killing was carried out for financial gain and by means of lying in wait. She was also found guilty of one count of conspiracy to commit murder. The verdict makes her eligible for a sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Prosecutors proved that Monica and her co-defendant, Robert Louis Baker, were involved in a romantic affair and conspired to kill Fabio Sementilli, 49, in his Woodland Hills home in case BA452975.

On January 23, 2017, Baker fatally stabbed Fabio as he sat on his patio, then fled the scene in the victim’s Porsche, which was later found abandoned miles away. Baker previously pleaded guilty to first-degree, special circumstances murder of Fabio, killing him with a knife, and was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole.

Monica devised the plan to get her hands on her husband’s $1 million dollar life insurance policy.

The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman of the Major Crimes Division and Deputy District Attorney Heather Steggell of the Organized Crime Division. The case was investigated by the Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery-Homicide Division.

“I want to acknowledge the exceptional work of the prosecution team of Beth Silverman and Heather Steggell in presenting their case with professionalism and diligence,” said District Attorney Nathan Hochman. “These experienced prosecutors and detectives investigated and prosecuted this case over eight years, painstakingly putting together each piece of this murder puzzle to overcome the lies and deception of Monica Sementilli and her lover who thought they had made a clean getaway.”

Fabio was a well known celebrity hairdresser. He shared 3 children with Monica, Gessica, Isabella and Luigi.

Sentencing for Monica is scheduled for June 23 in Department 101 of the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center.

By Trevor

WOODLAND HILLS—On Monday, March 24 at approximately 12:30 a.m. in the 16000 block of Gledhill Street, a 46-year-old man fired shots when he discovered three people attempting to steal his tires and rims from his vehicle in his driveway. Initial reports alleged a 17-year-old boy was one of the suspects and struck by gunfire. The victim’s exact age has not been confirmed.

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) David Cuellar indicated that the person shot was transported to an area hospital where he was listed in stable condition and vital signs were good.

Dmitry Gorin, a State-Bar Certified Criminal Law Specialist, explains California’s Castle Doctrine when it is legal in California to protect yourself and/or your property.

“You can use deadly force only if you reasonably fear great bodily injury or death. California is a stand-your-ground state, meaning there is no legal duty to retreat from a fight. California’s Castle Doctrine allows you to use deadly force against an intruder who breaks into your home. Self-defense laws can be used for many types of crimes, including Penal Code 187 PC murder, Penal Code 245(a)(1) assault with a deadly weapon, Penal Code 243(e)(1) domestic battery, and many others,” states the Eisner Gorin website.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Sunday, March 23, at approximately 7 p.m., three masked men broke into a house in the 2300 block of Irwin Street while two residents were at home. According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the suspects woke up a resident who was sleeping, zip-tied, and questioned him about a coin business he once owned.

A woman who reportedly confronted the thieves was locked in the bedroom with the zip-tied victim. The home was ransacked, and a safe was stolen from the premises. The victims were not certain what they had stored inside the safe.

The victims did not call the police for four-five hours after being locked in the room indicating to police that they did not think it was safe to call. It is not clear how long it took the burglars to get the safe out of the home. Police arrived at around 10:00 p.m.

Reports indicate that on March 4, LAPD responded to a call that occurred three miles away from this burglary. Similarly, three victims were at home when the thieves broke in. They bound all of them and locked them in a closet while looting their home.

The suspects in both robberies are still at large. Residents are encouraged to stay alert, be aware of their surroundings, and if suspicious people are nearby, err on the side of caution, and call the police.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—An armed intruder was fatally shot by a homeowner on Tuesday, March 11. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Homicide investigators are assisting Arcadia Police Department with a shooting death investigation. The incident was reported at approximately 6:26 p.m., on the 50 block of Woodland Lane, Arcadia, 91006.

Officers from the Arcadia Police Department responded to the 50 block of Woodland Lane in Arcadia regarding a report of a male intruder and a gunshot victim at the location.  Upon arrival, officers located an adult male, who resided at the location, suffering from a gunshot wound.  The Arcadia Fire Department responded and transported the victim to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The investigation is ongoing, and currently, there’s no additional information available at this time. Anyone with details about this incident is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.

To provide information anonymously, you may call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), use a smartphone by downloading the “P3 Tips” Mobile APP on Google play or the Apple App Store or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

WOODLAND HILLS—On Sunday, February 9, at approximately 1:30 a.m. officers from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Valley Bureau, issued a press release seeking public assistance with information on the identity and whereabouts of the suspect(s) responsible for the death of one, and injuries to six others at a house party in the vicinity of the 5900 block of Winnetka Avenue and Hatteras Street.

The following information came directly from the LAPD press release:

“When officers arrived, they determined there was a large party at the location. The officers located a male victim on the ground in the driveway with a gunshot wound. Los Angeles Fire Department personnel responded and rendered medical aid. The victim failed to respond to medical treatment and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Six additional victims are being treated at local hospitals for gunshot wounds.”

At the time of the press release, the victim’s name was being withheld pending the notification of next of kin. The victim has since been publicly identified as 16-year-old, Sah-Dell Roberts.

Reports indicate that the house the party took place at a home called, “The Hilltop House,” for an event referred to as the “VIP Party.” There were a reported 200-300 people before police arrived. Reports indicate that people dispersed after an argument broke out leading to shots fired.

“This is an ongoing investigation. Police advise that detectives from LAPD Operation Valley Bureau (OVB)Homicide are, “actively canvassing the neighborhood for surveillance video and witnesses.”

Attendees of the party reportedly told police there was hired security at this party. As of the time of this article, police have not had the opportunity to speak to the security detail.

Those with information on this incident are encouraged to contact OVB Homicide at (818)374-9550 or (310) 726-7700 on nights or weekends. To remain anonymous contact LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Sunday, January 26, the LAFD reported at 4:58 p.m. on 4100 N Alhama Drive four vehicles were stuck in mud. There are no rescues required, no structures involved and no injuries were reported.

Tow trucks and DOT requested to handle vehicle removal and traffic. The majority of the LAFD resources will be released. No additional details about the incident has been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

WOODLAND HILLS—On January 2, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Valley Traffic Division issued a press release requesting the public’s assistance in identifying the driver in a hit-and-run accident that left a 72-year-old female severely injured.

On November 24th at approximately 6:40 p.m., a vehicle was traveling southbound on Fallbrook Avenue at Victory Boulevard and struck a pedestrian crossing the street.

The suspect failed to stop, identify him/herself, or render aid to the victim. The Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics transported the critically injured woman to an area hospital for treatment.

The car the suspect was driving was described as being an older, dark-colored sedan, similar to a 2010-2013 model of the Honda Civic.

The following came directly from the LAPD press release.

“On April 15, 2015, the City Council amended the Los Angeles Administrative Code and created a Hit-and-Run Reward Program Trust Fund. A reward of up to $25,000 is available to community members who provide information leading to the offender’s identification, apprehension, and conviction or resolution through a civil compromise.

Drivers are reminded that if they become involved in a collision, they should pull over and stop as soon as it is safe to do so, notify emergency services, and remain at the scene to identify themselves.

Anyone with information about this collision is asked to contact Valley Traffic Detective Ramirez, at 818-644-8025. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Lastly, tipsters may also download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.”

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On December 29, at 10:15 p.m., the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Topanga Division responded to a 911 call of vandalism at an area hotel located on the 21700 block of Ventura Boulevard when dispatch informed officers that the perpetrator was armed.

According to an LAPD press release, the responding officers arriving at the scene encountered the suspect walking from the parking area to the street brandishing two guns. The suspect aimed and fired at the officers. He then retreated to a car parked nearby, and retreated with one gun, and fired at the officers again, and officers returned fire.

The following came directly from the press release.

“The suspect fled back into the hotel and officers immediately established a perimeter around the building and requested the assistance of Metropolitan Division Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT).

After the suspect refused to surrender, SWAT officers, along with a Tactical Emergency Medical Support Unit (TEMS) from the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD), entered the hotel and located the suspect at the bottom of a stairwell. The suspect had sustained gunshot wounds.

Personnel from the TEMS unit immediately assessed and determined the suspect, later identified as 47-year-old Benjamin Prince Bradley, was deceased.

No officers or other community members were injured during this incident.

An AEA Harpoon double barrel shot air pistol, loaded with an air cartridge in each barrel, was located at the scene, along with an AEA model B&WT9 air rifle, which was loaded with seven rounds in the cylinder. Both weapons were capable of firing metallic rounds of ammunition. Both weapons were recovered and booked as evidence.

Force Investigation Division (FID) responded to the scene and is investigating this incident.”

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Friday, December 13, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), announced that multiple individuals have been arrested in connection with the murder of Dr. Hamid Mirshojae, 61, who was fatally shot on August 23, after leaving his office in the 5900 block of Topanga Canyon Boulevard.

The following information came directly from the updated LAPD press release.

“The Los Angeles Police Department’s Operations-Valley Bureau Homicide detectives have arrested five individuals in connection with the August 23rd, 2024, shooting of Dr. Hamid Mirshojae. The investigation revealed that these five [people] conspired to commit murder, culminating in the ambush and subsequent demise of Doctor Mirshojae.

It should be noted that the investigation remains ongoing, including determining the relationship some of the involved may have shared with the victim.

At the time of this release, three of the suspects have received formal charges from the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

Evan Hardman, a 41-year-old male from Tomball Texas, was taken into custody in Texas on December 10th, 2024, and will be transferred into LAPD custody. Hardman was charged with 187 of the California Penal Code: Murder with Special Circumstances.

Ashley Rose Sweeting, a 40-year-old female from Reseda, California, was also taken into custody on December 10th, 2024. Sweeting was charged with 32 of the California Penal Code: Accessory to Murder.

Sarallah Jawed a 26-year-old male from Canoga Park, California, was taken into custody on December 11th, 2024. Jawed was charged with 187 of the California Penal Code: Murder with Special Circumstances.

Shawn Randolph, a 46-year-old male from Valley Village, California, was taken into custody on December 12th, 2024. Randolph was booked for 187 of the California Penal Code: Murder.

5) Ahang Mirshojae, a 53-year-old female from Calabasas, California, was also taken into custody on December 12th, 2024. Mirshojae was booked for 187 of the California Penal Code: Murder.

Both Randolph and Mirshojae are being held without bail. The case against Randolph and Mirshojae will be presented for filing consideration to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office on Monday, December 16th, 2024.

This is an ongoing investigation, anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Operations-Valley Homicide at 818-374-9550.”

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Monday, November 25, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that they battled a fire that erupted at a garage and attic of a one-story home. The incident was reported at 8:14 p.m. at 23016 W Sylvan St.

By 8:36 p.m. a total of 35 firefighters took just 22 minutes in a well-coordinated firefighting offense to extinguish heavy fire at the 4,300 square foot one-story home. There were no reports of any injuries. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

By Trevor

WOODLAND HILLS—On Tuesday, October 29, the Los Angeles Police Department reported that several serial follow away robbery suspects have been arrested.

The LAPD reported on September 19, a robbery occurred in the 23000 block of Mulholland Drive in Woodland Hills. The suspects followed and confronted the victim in a parking lot.

Two suspects punched the victim which knocked him to the ground and then pinned the victim to the ground and forcibly removed his jewelry before fleeing in a black BMW sedan. On October 23, a robbery occurred in the 21000 block of Ventura Boulevard in Woodland Hills. The victim was followed to a local business when a black BMW sedan drove up to him. Two rear passengers exited armed with handguns. The suspects stripped the victim of his jewelry and fled in the BMW.

During the investigation, detectives from Robbery-Homicide Division identified Chazon Brown, 28, from Los Angeles, Isaiah Moore, 32, from Fresno, and Nhazel Warren, 19, from Los Angeles, as the persons responsible for the robberies.

On October 24, search and arrest warrants were served which resulted in the arrest of both Brown and Moore as well as the seizure of numerous items of evidence, including two semi-automatic pistols. Warren was arrested that evening in Long Beach.

All three suspects were arrested for 211 PC-Armed Robbery and booked into an LAPD jail facility with their bail all set at $1 million.

During these crimes, Warren was wearing a GPS ankle monitor placed on him by the Los Angeles County Probation Pre-Trial Services following his arrests in two separate unrelated felony cases that occurred in July and August 2024. On October 29, Warren posted bond for a third time and was released.

Based on evidence collected in this case, investigators believe these three individuals are prolific robbery suspects, responsible for other robberies. Investigators believe there are many other victims who have yet to be identified. Photographs of the suspects are being released to identify and speak with additional victims.

Anyone who has been a victim or has details about this investigation is asked to contact Detectives Mrakich and Delph at (213) 486-6840 or email rhdtipline@lapd.online. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

WOODLAND HILLS—On Friday, October 4, Woodland Hills police officers arrested four adults and two juveniles in connection with a flash mob robbery at the Westfield Topanga Mall.

According to the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Inmate Locator that may be found on the LASD webpage, Amaya McDonald, 19 of Los Angeles was arrested for felony forgery. She has been detained. Bail has been set at $150,000.

Joshua Jones, 22, of Los Angeles was also arrested and detained. Charges are felony forgery with bail set at 1,085,000.

Justin Jones, 18, of Los Angeles, has been arrested and detained. Bail was set at $150,000.

Reports indicate that Rejene Robinson, 26, of L.A. was arrested a couple of hours after the others while driving the vehicle used in the larceny case. She was arrested by officers from the Huntington Beach Police Department and detained for possession of stolen property.

The identity of the other two suspects detained is being withheld due to their age. This case is still under investigation.

Lawmakers have put more stringent laws in effect due to the uptick in crime, specifically flash mob robberies.

Anyone with more information on this case or the individuals charged is encouraged to call the LAPD Commercial Crimes Division at 818-374-9437

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Friday, October 4, the LAFD battled a two-story house fire in Woodland Hills. The blaze was reported at 12:20 p.m. at 4901 N Winnetka Avenue.

By 12:37 p.m., firefighters extinguished the blaze. Firefighters responded to a two-story home to find a small fire inside near an electrical outlet, where the wall and contents in front of the electrical outlet sustained damage.

The residents were not home, and no one was injured during the incident. It took 26 firefighters 17 minutes to extinguish the flames. No additional details about the house fire were disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

WOODLAND HILLS—On Wednesday, September 18, Daniel McGuire of Woodland Hills was found guilty of assault by a jury of his peers and ordered to pay two street vendors a total of $2.8 million after destroying the street vendors’ fruit stand with an Axe.

On September 22, 2022, Daniel McGuire, 61, was arrested and charged with a felony after what the victim’s attorney, Christian Contreras referred to as “a reign of terror.”

One of the victims, Jonathan Alvarez was speaking in Spanish when he indicated to reporters that he was scared, saying, “He threatened my life.”

According to the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department inmate locator, McGuire was arrested, booked into the Valley Jail in Van Nuys, and released.

The incident was captured on cell phone video footage. In defense of his clients, Contreras said, “He didn’t physically touch them or physically harm them, he definitely put them through significant turmoil through his aggressive conduct, through his aggressive acts, and he was saying very vulgar things.”

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Friday, September 13, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported a brush fire in Woodland Hills. The fire was first reported at 6:19 a.m. By 6:50 a.m. the LAFD indicated the blaze was contained at 22000 W. Mulholland Drive.

Firefighters surrounded the vacant building, ensuring there was no extension to the brush and allowed a controlled burn of the remnants of the vacant structure. There were no injuries reported and no further updates anticipated in the incident.

By Trevor

WOODLAND HILLS—On Thursday, September 12, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported a chemical investigation was underway in Woodland Hills. The incident was first reported at 10:58 a.m. at 23750 W. Califa Street.

Initial reports of a “safe” in a chemistry classroom which has not been opened in years, containing unknown substances appeared to have been jostled during the earthquake and a staff member was concerned. The first engine on scene used a gas meter and did not detect any hazards. There are no patients with any medical complaints. The LAFD Haz Mat Squad is on scene to aid in the investigation.

The incident was first reported at 12:20 p.m. the LAFD reported the Haz Mat Squad completed their investigation and determined there were no hazards present. The incident is being turned over to Los Angeles School PD and any follow up media queries are being referred to them.

By Trevor

WOODLAND HILLS—On Tuesday, September 3, at approximately 6:00 a.m., a male pedestrian was fatally struck by a vehicle in the southbound lane on Ventura Freeway flipping him over multiple lanes of traffic.  The incident shut down multiple lanes of the 101 Freeway between Winnetka and Tampa Avenue between 6:00-10:00 a.m.

Officers from the California Highway Patrol (CHP) were the first responders on the scene. No information regarding the deceased or the person who struck him has been released to the public at this time.

According to a press release on the CHP website, CHP officers arrested at least 1,100 people for DUI over the Labor Day weekend. The following statement came directly from the website:

“CHP officers kept watch over California’s crowded roadways over the holiday weekend, vigilantly monitoring for instances of impaired driving while implementing a statewide Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) that ran from 6:01 p.m. on Friday, August 30, continuing through 11:59 p.m. on Monday, September 2.

During the 72-hour holiday enforcement effort, CHP officers made over 1,100 arrests for driving under the influence and issued more than 27,000 citations with over 16,200 for speeding alone.”

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Sunday, September 1, a 5-year-old child was attacked by a mountain lion while picnicking with family and friends. Children were together nearby when the mountain lion attacked. He grabbed the child by his head and began to drag him off when his father quickly intervened. The child was reportedly air-lifted to an area hospital for treatment.

Photo by Marek Okon

One of the child’s relatives first told KTLA that,

“Somebody screamed the baby’s name, and his dad started running,” she explained. “The father grabbed the mountain lion with his hands, and he just fought. Then the mountain lion let go.”

Canyon News reached out to California State Park Rangers for more information. The Communications Manager of the California Department of Fish And Wildlife responded with the following statement.

“California State Parks (State Parks) rangers and Los Angeles County Sheriff Deputies responded to a report of a mountain lion attack at Malibu Creek State Park on Sunday, September 1, at 4:21 p.m. California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) wildlife officers, National Park Service personnel, and Los Angeles Fire and Rescue also responded.

A family group from Woodland Hills was having a picnic at Malibu Creek State Park, consisting of at least six adults and a few children. The children were playing in the immediate vicinity of the family’s picnic table when a mountain lion attacked a 5-year-old boy, causing significant but non-life-threatening injuries.

One or more adults charged at the lion, and it released the boy. Multiple witnesses saw the attack and observed the mountain lion climb up a nearby tree.

The lion remained in the tree until [the] State Parks rangers arrived. In consultation with CDFW wildlife officers, they deemed the mountain lion a threat to public safety and a ranger euthanized it via firearm.

The boy was airlifted to the Northridge Hospital Medical Center for treatment of his injuries and was eventually released in the early morning hours of Monday, September 2.

Per standard protocol, wildlife officers contacted the victim and family at the hospital to obtain evidence samples from the bite and scratch wounds and the victim’s clothing. Those evidence samples were confirmed DNA match by CDFW’s Wildlife Forensic Lab in Sacramento.

CDFW and State Parks officials are thankful that the family is safe, and the child is recovering and no one else was injured.”

By Sharon

Polling in CA-32 Shows Thompson (R) Gaining Fast

WOODLAND HILLS, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES—August 26, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ — Rep. Brad Sherman (CA-32) has been in Congress for 14 terms (28 years). As a Democrat in a deep blue California district, he has had very little competition for almost three decades…until now. Out of the wild west, Larry Thompson, also known as “The Sanity Man,” has ridden into town claiming “this used to be Reagan Country and I’m running for Congress to take it back for him.”

Thompson’s call to arms has found serious traction among voters and is threatening Sherman’s stronghold.

California’s District 32 encompasses the communities of Bel-Air, Bell Canyon, Beverly Glen, Brentwood, Canoga Park, Chatsworth, Encino, Malibu, North Hills, Northridge, Pacific Palisades, Reseda, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Tarzana, Topanga, West Hills, Winnetka, and Woodland Hills. The district traditionally trends Democratic by a large margin of 70-30. Door-to-door campaign polling shows Thompson pulling up close to 50-50.

With national political fatigue, a divisive country full of hatred, fear of a World War, inflation, a local rise in Anti-Semitism, continued homelessness, increasing crime in the San Fernando Valley, disrespect for law and order and the police, and Bel-Air’s privacy being threatened by an underground rail to possibly be built connecting Ventura Boulevard to Westwood, voters are deciding to accept the need for change, and, instead of faithfully and blindly voting their party line, they are deciding to break ranks and simply vote their values. Thompson argues that he upholds those values and is ready to go to work to install or restore them.

When asked yesterday at this year’s final Summer Concert at Warner Center Park in Woodland Hills why he thinks his campaign is doing so well, Thompson answered, “Well, I am running for Congress to awaken, organize, and unite the canceled conservative voter, the dissatisfied Democrat voter, and the undecided No Party Preference voter. I want them to no longer feel alone, defeated, and scared. I ask that they have courage, stand up, and join me and those who share their values and vision of our country. I want everyone to simply use Common Sense with Common Civility to find Common Ground to solve our Common Issues. Let’s start a new conversation to finally stop the fighting, regain our ‘Sanity,’ and get something done. Politics have become insane. I’m the ‘Sanity Man.'”

For further information, contact:
Robert G. Endara II
12021 Wilshire Blvd.
Suite 614
Los Angeles, CA 90025
(310) 288-0700

E-mail: larry@larrythompsonforcongress.com
Website: www.LarryThompsonForCongress.com
Please click on the following link to download the photo of Congressional Candidate Larry Thompson campaigning at Warner Center Park Concert: https://spaces.hightail.com/receive/ii467pBEwt
Please click on the following link to download the photo of Congressman Brad Sherman (D) was a no-show at the Warner Center Park Concert: https://spaces.hightail.com/receive/C6r36bimEM
Courtesy of Larry Thompson For Congress

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Written By Larry Thompson For Congress

WOODLAND HILLS—On Wednesday, August 14, the Los Angeles Police Department reported that suspects involved in a string of burglaries in the Woodland Hills region were arrested. The LAPD reported on August 13, around 3:30 a.m., Topanga Area patrol units responded to a burglary in progress at a shoe store in the 7200 block of Topanga Canyon Boulevard.

After arriving on the scene, authorities found a white van parked outside of the business. The occupants in the vehicle did not comply with officers’ commands and fled the scene in the van. Officers initiated a vehicle pursuit, which lasted less than a minute before two suspects were observed running from the vehicle in an alley to the rear of 7200 Owensmouth Avenue. Officers initiated a foot pursuit and were able to take the driver of the van, Terry Sutton, 36, into custody. The other suspect continued to flee on foot, and a perimeter was established.

Upon review of surveillance video from the business, it was determined that four suspects were involved in the burglary, and all four were in the van when they fled from the scene. Air Support and patrol resources responded and assisted with the perimeter, but the additional suspects were not located.

During the on-scene investigation, it was discovered that the same suspects burglarized one additional location nearby before burglarizing the shoe store. The secondary location was in the 6400 block of Topanga Canyon Boulevard. Preliminary video evidence depicts the same vehicle used in the burglary at the shoe store. All of the stolen items in the van have been returned to the business owners.

Sutton was booked for 459 PC, Commercial Burglary, booking number 6864575. Commercial Crimes Division has taken over investigative responsibility for this case.

By Trevor

WOODLAND Hills—On August 12, the Los Angeles Police Department published a press release requesting public assistance in locating 17-year-old, Sara Nicole Castillo who was last seen August 9 at her home in the 5400 block of Zelzah Avenue.

The teen is described as being a young Latino female with long dark brown hair and brown eyes. She is approximately 5’ 7” tall and weighs 113 lbs. Sara lives with autism.

She was last seen wearing a gray shirt with a flowery print on it, gray shorts, and pink flip-flops. The family reported her missing on August 10, at approximately 2:00 a.m.

Her father reportedly received a text from her saying she stepped out for some air but was unable to find her way back.

Those who may have seen Sara or know of her whereabouts are encouraged to call LAPD’s Missing Persons Unit at 213-996-1800.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Wednesday, August 7, the Los Angeles Fire Department battled a two-story condo fire in Woodland Hills.

The fire was reported at 12:15 p.m. at 22101 W. Burbank Blvd. The two-story condo complex (four units, each 2 stories) with fire inside the walls. Two additional task forces requested due to the size of building and need for more firefighters to locate the fire and determine if there is extension from the pipe alley through the adjoining units.

Over 50 firefighters conducted a coordinate search to locate, isolate and extinguish fire in the walls of a two story (4 unit, each two floors) condo complex. During the 45 min operation, firefighters used thermal imaging cameras and strategically opened walls where needed to extinguish the fire. There are no reported injuries reported. The exact cause of the fire is under investigation.

By Trevor

WOODLAND HILLS—On July 30, the body of a man was discovered in the bushes near the intersection of West Oxnard Street and Winnetka Avenue. First responders from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) arrived at approximately 7:00 a.m.

The victim described only as being a 40-year-old male was found with multiple stab wounds. He was declared dead at the scene.

Traffic was shut down in the southbound lanes of Winnetka Avenue between Oxnard Street and Hatteras Street for an undetermined amount of time while homicide detectives investigated the area.

Reports indicate that ABC 7 was hovering above. They were able to capture aerial footage of the perimeter officers had taped off during the investigation.

Anyone with additional information is encouraged to call Detective Steve Castro, Los Angeles Police Department, Valley Bureau Homicide, at (818) 374-1925. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477)

By Sharon

MALIBU, July 29, 2024—”Brad Sherman should confess and apologize for living a lie,” demands Congressional candidate, Larry Thompson (R- Calif) at his sunset campaign rally in Malibu, CA, Sunday, July 28.

“Sherman continues to mislead and lie to people that beautiful Sherman Oaks, California is named after him and his family. That’s a lie. Sherman Oaks was founded in 1927 by wealthy land-developer General Moses Hazeltine Sherman. Neither Brad Sherman nor anyone in his family is a descendant of General Sherman. He has been lying or misleading citizens about Sherman Oaks being named after him and his family ever since the Democratic Convention in 1996 when he entered national politics, and no one has ever challenged him on his false claim… until now. 

“If a man can brag and lie for 30 years about his name and a famous neighborhood in his political district being named after him, what else will he lie about? This long-term dishonesty really bothers me, and it should embarrass him. He should come clean and apologize immediately to the citizens of CA 32, especially those who live in Sherman Oaks or travel on Sherman Way.

“Lying for a long time to publicly elevate one’s importance slowly eats away at one’s character. Living a lie or allowing people who trust you to believe a lie about you blinds you to the truth about everything. Sherman’s 30-year disguise finally brings his morality and credibility into serious question.”

Rep. Brad Sherman (D-Calif) has been in office for 14 terms (28 years). California District 32 encompasses Bel-Air, Bell Canyon, Beverly Glen, Brentwood, Canoga Park, Chatsworth, Encino, Malibu, North Hills, Northridge, Pacific Palisades, Reseda, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Tarzana, Topanga, West Hills, Winnetka, and Woodland Hills.

“Confess Sherman and apologize,” demands Thompson.

For further information, contact:

Robert G. Endara II

12021 Wilshire Blvd.

Suite 614

Los Angeles, CA 90025

(310) 288-0700

E-mail: larry@larrythompsonforcongress.com

Website: www.LarryThompsonForCongress.com

WOODLAND HILLS—At 8:50 a.m. on Saturday, July 27, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported a fire at a commercial building in Woodland Hills. By 9:29 a.m., officials reported that the blaze at 21800 W. Ventura Blvd. was extinguished in 39 minutes by 78 firefighters.

One person from the fire unit (circumstances unknown) was being evaluated for possible smoke inhalation. The building was approximately a 75 feet x 75 feet commercial building with three store fronts and a common attic. The end (corner) unit was fully involved with some extension into the adjoining unit. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

By Trevor

WOODLAND HILLS—On Wednesday, July 24, a one-day old infant girl was found dead in the 23000 block of Burbank Boulevard in Woodlad Hills. According to reports, at approximately 6:00 p.m., a 23-year-old woman arrived at Woodlad Hills Hospital. She had just given birth and appeared to be hemorrhaging. There was no infant with her.

Hospital staff alerted the police who followed-up at the Burbank Boulevard home. At 7:15 p.m. responding officers found the newborn baby dead.

This is an active investigation with few details available. Reports indicate there are two homes on this piece of property. NBC4 first reported that the Los Angeles Police Department is currently investigating the baby’s death as a homicide, but the cause of death has yet to be determined.

Defense attorney, Tiffany Feder made the following statement regarding the infant’s mother.

“She is fully cooperating with police,” and “We’re gonna let the investigation run its course.”

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On June 27, the Los Angeles City Council announced a $25,000 reward for information leading to the identification/arrest/conviction of those responsible for the theft of the bronze plaques honoring eleven teachers on the Victory Boulevard Hall of Fame at Canoga Park.

Los Angeles City Councilman Bob Blumenfield said, “It’s egregious and awful that someone would yank them out of the sidewalk and try to sell them for scrap metal. They have significant financial value, but beyond that, they have community value.

It’s our version in the West Valley of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but instead of glorifying celebrities, we’re glorifying teachers. When you rip these plaques out of the ground, you’re also ripping out part of the soul of this community.”

The non-profit Walk of Hearts group has awarded and installed 77 plaques in the San Fernando Valley over the last 20 years. These 11 plaques honoring teachers were among those placed in Canoga Park for the impact these teachers had on their community at large.

The initial cost of the plaques was an estimated $4,000 per plaque, but the cost of replacing them is expected to be much higher.

The plaques are not the only recent thefts. There have been reports of fire hydrants, and copper wiring from the bridge, there have been thefts at local cemeteries, and the bronze statue at MacArthur Park was also stolen.

Anyone who has more information regarding the thefts or has seen the stolen items is encouraged to call the Los Angeles Police Department at the 24-Hour Anonymous Tip Line
1-877-LAPD 24-7 or (1-877-527-3247)

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Wednesday, June 19, at approximately 4:00 a.m., there was a multi-vehicle accident on the westbound lanes of the 101 Freeway near Topanga Avenue exit. One person was struck and killed in the crash. The name of the motorcyclist was not initially published pending notification of the next of kin.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiners Department later identified the victim of the crash as 32-year-old, Dustin Perdomo. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

A friend in mourning posted the following memorial message on Facebook:

“Dustin Perdomo was a very special friend I lost this morning in a motorcycle accident on the 101 freeway. I’m heartbroken. I never got tired of hanging out with you. You were soft spoken and gentle. I could literally tell you anything and you never judged me. I love you my brother and will miss you deeply”

The westbound lanes of the 101 Freeway remained closed until approximately 10:00 a.m.

There were three other vehicles involved in the accident with no other fatalities. There is no more information available at this time.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Wednesday, June 5, at approximately 8:40 a.m. police were called to 24200 Hatteras Street to investigate claims of an assault in progress.

Media Relations officer, Rosario Cervantes first told the Daily News that first officers who arrived at the scene observed, “a male individual armed with a knife.”

Officers stopped the assault in progress by tasing the suspect. Reports indicate that this victim was the homeowner at this address and the suspect’s father. There was a woman and a third person present who were also suffering from stab wounds.

Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) transported two victims in critical condition, and one in moderate condition to area hospitals for treatment. The suspect was taken into custody

The suspect was later identified as Pete Demetriou, 34 who reportedly is mentally ill. An LAPD detective first told KNX News that an argument ensued over a court hearing Demetriou was expected to attend.

The detective indicated that as a result, the suspect stabbed both his father and his mother. There is no information readily available on the third victim, the condition of the victims, or where the suspect may be detained.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Tuesday, June 4, at approximately 12:45 p.m. an unidentified man was shot in the vicinity of the intersection of W. Oxnard St. and Fallbrook Avenue. Two suspects were reportedly last seen fleeing the scene of the crime in a Toyota Highlander.

The victim was taken to an area hospital for treatment of gunshot wound(s).\

There is no further information regarding the identity or condition of the person who fell victim to this crime.

The case is under investigation. The Los Angeles Police Department (LASD) is seeking public information on the identity of both suspects and the victim.

Those who may have information, or may be able to identify the victims or the suspects in this case are encouraged to contact the Topanga Community Police Station at 21501 Schoenborn St. in Canoga Park or call818-756-4800 or 818 756-5899

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Tuesday, February 4, at approximately 5:00 p.m., the California Hwy Patrol (CHP) and the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Station 84 responded to a traffic collision on the 101 Ventura Freeway involving at least one vehicle and one motorcycle.

Paramedics attempted to render aid to the lone victim of the crash,  later identified by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiners,  31-year-old Allyson Kiran Sabharwal of Woodland Hills. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities indicated that the incident took place at the off-ramp near Desoto Avenue shutting down all but one lane on the 101 Freeway near Topanga Canyon Boulevard.

The lone victim of the crash may have been struck by a second vehicle. The incident is currently under investigation by CHP.

Those with more information are encouraged to call CHP West Valley at, 818-888-0980. They are located at 5825 DeSoto Avenue.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Thursday, May 9, at approximately 2:00 p.m., a Woodland Hills resident, Corinna Bubenheim reported a mountain lion in her yard near Woodlake Avenue and Mariano Street. It was her pet German Shepherds that alerted her to the presence of a predator. He was lounging in her avocado tree.

Bubenheim called 911 who referred her to animal services. According to animal control and the Department of Fish and Wildlife, the cougar appeared to be young, and was not wearing a tracking collar. He descended from the tree on his own and left the premises. Animal Services reportedly knocked on doors to inform the neighbors of the wildlife sighting.

Reports indicate there was a chicken coop on the property that attracted the adolescent lion cub to the area.

The following information came directly from the California Fish and Wildlife webpage and is entitled, “Human-Wildlife Conflicts: Mountain Lions.”

“Mountain lions (Puma concolor), also known as puma, cougar, or panther, are native to California and the second largest felid in North America. They inhabit diverse habitat types throughout the state, including forests and foothills, coastal, rural, and wildlife-urban interfaces. They are reclusive and solitary animals, mostly avoiding people when possible.

Mountain lions provide many ecosystem benefits by helping to maintain healthy prey populations. They will hunt deer and elk, invasive species such as wild pigs and feral horses, and smaller animals such as coyotes, raccoons, and rodents. Potential conflict with mountain lions may occur due to property damage and loss of livestock or pets while hunting. Feeding other wildlife, such as deer, may attract mountain lions.”

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Tuesday, April 9, the Los Angeles Police Department Topanga Division announced that on April 8, around 7:35 a.m., officers responded to the 6200 block of Variel Avenue for a radio call of a homicide investigation. Operations Valley Bureau (OVB) homicide detectives were notified and responded to the scene learning of two related incidents that transpired following the homicide on Variel Avenue.

The LAPD reported that the first incident involved two young children being found on the 405 Freeway near Howard Hughes Parkway. The second incident involved a single vehicle fatal traffic collision in Redondo Beach.

Detectives worked in collaboration with the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the Redondo Beach Police Department, and the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office to determine if the incidents were related and discovered that the victim, Jaelen Chaney, 29, and the suspect, Danielle Johnson, 34, resided together with her two young children, aged eight months old and nine years old, in a residence in the 6200 block of Variel Avenue.

On April 8, around 3:40 a.m., Chaney and Johnson became involved in a verbal altercation that escalated into Johnson becoming violent, stabbing Chaney, who succumbed to his injuries at the scene. A knife with biological evidence was later recovered from the scene, where Johnson fled with her two children in a dark-colored Porsche SUV.

Around 4:30 a.m., the dark-colored SUV was spotted driving on the 405 Freeway when the two children were expelled from the vehicle while it was moving. The nine-year-old child sustained moderate injuries from the fall and was transported to a local hospital. The eight-month-old child sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at scene.

Around 5 a.m., Johnson drove her vehicle at a speed in excess of 100 miles per hour in Redondo Beach near the intersection of Vincent Street and the Pacific Coast Highway and collided with a tree. Johnson did not survive the crash and was the sole occupant of the vehicle.

These events transpired before LAPD personnel were notified of the crime. Around 7:35 a.m., neighbors on Variel Avenue spotted the front door open, which prompted them to check on the well-being of the residents. It was at that time Chaney was discovered dead inside the apartment. After a thorough investigation and collaboration with the above agencies, homicide detectives determined that the incidents were all related and no further threat to the community.

Anyone with additional details is asked to contact Operations Valley Bureau Homicide Detectives at (818) 374-9550. During non-business hours, or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wanting to remain anonymous should call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

WOODLAND HILLS—On March 31, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) arrested one individual for attempting to set fire to Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) station 105, located at 6345 Fallbrook Ave, in Woodland Hills.

The Los Angeles Police Department responded to a call for trespassing at Station 105 after receiving reports of a man attempting to use the LAFD diesel fuel pump and spray the outside of the building. The suspect was successful in using the fuel pump that requires a pin code to operate.

A LAFD Captain indicated only one member of Station 105 was present at the time of the incident.

Authorities located and arrested the suspect at a nearby homeless encampment where he allegedly resides. No additional information is available about the suspect at this time.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Sunday, March 24, El Camino Charter High School, also known as “ECR” or “Elco” located at 5440 Valley Circle Boulevard in the Woodland Hills district of San Fernando Valley won the California Academic Decathlon in Santa Clara, California.

According to the school website, 54 California schools competed in the areas of math, science, literature, art, music, social science, economics, essay writing, interviewing, speech, comprehension, and humanity.

ECR students competing earned a total of 50,781.20 out of 60,000 available points, earned 48 individual medals earning both state and super quiz titles. 

This is not the first win for El Camino High. ECR students won the Decathlon last year earning their place in the National Finals in Frisco, Texas, and took home the 2023 Division I Champion title. The Woodland Hills charter school has achieved the right to compete nationally three times in the last five years.  

In addition, this win marks El Camino’s 14th state title which is more than any other school in the state of California.

Elco students will now represent the state of California as they move forward to compete at the national level in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on April 25-27. According to the U.S. Decathlon website, online national competitions for small, medium, and large schools are also open to qualified teams from each participating state.

According to U.S. News and World Report, El Camino Real Charter High School is ranked 3,645 in the nation.

Canyon News reached out to El Camino Real Charter High School for a statement but did not hear back in time for print.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Tuesday, March 12, the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) became aware of an internet shooting threat aimed at Taft High School located at 5461 Winnetka Avenue. Los Angeles Police Department (LASD) officers responded to the scene at approximately 9:00 a.m.

The Los Angeles Unified School District sent out a mass voice message to parents informing them that the social media message was not believed to be a viable threat.

“We take the safety and security of our students and our campus very seriously. All statements that raise concerns about the safety of our campus are immediately and thoroughly investigated to ensure the safety of our students. The district will continue to evaluate their safety procedures to ensure the safety of the school community.”

Multiple reports indicate one of the posts said, “School is going to get shot today around 4th period. Stay tuned.” A random photo was accompanied on one of the posts that showed a gun resting on someone’s lap.

Students reportedly went into panic mode when seeing the social media threat posts on their cell phones. Students were seen scaling the chain-linked fence and leaving school.

During the late morning hours of March 12, the Citizen App for Loss Angeles posted video footage on the X social media site Taft Charter School depicting a large police presence, and a long line of parents lining up on Winnetka Avenue to pick up their children.

This is an ongoing investigation. Both the LAPD and the LAUSD School Resource Officers are still looking into the matter.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Saturday, February 17, there was an attempted burglary at Kennedy Surf Shop located at 22026 Ventura Boulevard. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers reportedly responded to the alarm being triggered at that location at 9:30 p.m.

Surveillance footage of the incident first obtained by KTLA depicted shattered glass from the storefront window and the front sidewalk.

A post went out on X at 11:45 p.m. from the SFV scanner, “#lapd#topanga 6600 Topanga Canyon Crime broadcast for a smash and grab 30 min. ago.”

Multiple commenters shared their disdain for the upsurge in crime.

@Jimmy9808872 tweeted, “Hitting the Westfield shopping center in Canoga Park again and again…”

Kat~ also replied, “Neiman’s or Nordstrom? So tired of this nonsense… this area needs a serious neighborhood watch/proactive group until Rams training facility moves in…”

Canyon News reached out to LAPD Topanga Division for more information and a possible description of the suspect(s).  An unnamed LAPD Media Relations officer sent a return email stating that there was no description of the suspects except that, “they were wearing dark clothing.”

By Sharon

 

WOODLAND HILLS—On Friday, February 9, at approximately 11:00 p.m. the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Topanga Division officers responded to a call of shots fired at the Best Western motel located at 21830 Ventura Boulevard.

Officers arriving at the scene discovered a male victim suffering from gunshot wounds in one of the rooms.

Reports indicate that the male was in the room with an unidentified female when a second male in his 40’s is let into the room by the female. The second male can be heard shouting at the first male who is now the victim, demanding he turn over his property to him. The victim is shot, and both the suspect, and the female leave the premises together in an unknown vehicle.

Police are now considering both suspects in what has become an armed robbery. The victim was taken to an area hospital for treatment of gunshot wounds.

No further information is known at this time. Canyon News reached out to Best Western and the LAPD Public Information Officer for the case but have not heard back from the management from the motel.

LASD officer Drake Madison from the Media Relations Department responded with the following information on the case.

 

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On January 11, a 1962 light teal-colored Chevy Impala was stolen from the driveway of Seth Wayne captured on his security cameras. He indicated that the car was not normally left in his driveway.

Wayne, who is a flight instructor by trade, normally keeps the car safe in his hangar at the airport.

The footage shows what appears to be two Black men stealing the vehicle and bending the grill to open the hood. Wayne suggested they had to have pushed it out of the driveway or hotwired it.

Wayne told ABC 7, “I guess they weren’t familiar with what the hydraulics were and what was going on back there, and when they yanked the cables, the charger, the positive and the negative, they hit it and sparks went flying everywhere.”

He indicated that this car was a dream car, he waited a lifetime to acquire and it was stolen on his birthday.  “It’s not the kind of thing you want to deal with on your birthday,” Wayne continued.

Wayne was in the process of working on it.  It was missing some parts and it was worth $100,000. Though Wayne does have insurance on the vehicle, he mentioned that he’d rather have the vehicle back than the insurance money. 

Seth Wayne is the owner of the Ascent Aviation Academy in Van Nuys.  According to the Academy’s website, he has been flying since the age of 15.  Pilots he trained, and his alumni, include those who are now flying for the US Air Force, US Army, FedEx, UPS, Delta, and other airlines.

The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating the incident. Anyone with information about the theft or the whereabouts of the car is asked to call LAPD at 1-877-3247.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On January 9, the California Investment Group (CIG) announced the purchase of 19 acres in Woodland Hills for an upscale retirement village. CoStar News first reported that CIG along with some other investors purchased the property at 23388 Mulholland Drive on the border of Calabasas for $30 million, which works out to be approximately $1.58 million per acre.

The land was purchased from a local motion picture and television fund. According to the CIG website, there is undeveloped land that a non-profit has owned since 1941 that sits just south of the upcoming retirement village and hospital for the entertainment industry in the southwest corner of San Fernando Valley.

An affiliate of the Westlake Village-based developer contacted the appropriate parties to invest in the development with the California Investment Group.

The plans include penthouses, villas, and apartments with options of one to three bedrooms with either underground or attached-garage parking.

The luxury homes are part of a Life Plan Community for seniors that will be built on top of a restaurant with outdoor seating. The units will be gray and brown.

According to the announcement written by Dana Bartholomew of CIG, the retirement village will offer a gourmet restaurant, athletic courts, movie theater, wine bar, fitness room, learning center, medical suites, walking trails, a rooftop lounge, pool and spa.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—The Los Angeles Police Department are currently investigating a string of businesses that were vandalized in the Woodland Hills region.

Video captured a man tossing a rock at one business. The glass was not shattered as a result of the object being thrown. The LAPD are investigating the incident as a potential hate crime after receiving two other reports on Saturday, January 7 on the 20900 block of Victory Boulevard.

According to CBS Los Angeles, one business owner indicated several other businesses were targeted, all Jewish owned that had damage to their establishments with windows being shattered because of object that were thrown at them. Messages written on the businesses included “Pay Up” or “Glory.” One of the businesses damaged was a dance studio.

The LAPD have not reported any arrests or additional details on a suspect or suspects in any of the incidents.

By Trevor

WOODLAND HILLS—On Friday, December 15, Derrick Toole, 59, who reportedly owns Derrick Toole Construction in Woodland Hills plead guilty to stalking two separate ex-girlfriends. According to the Ventura County District Attorney’s office, Toole violated a Temporary Restraining Order by calling, texting, and showing up at the victim’s residence.

The prosecutor indicated that in 2019, the first of the two women that Toole had previously dated, moved to a new location. “He would show up at her new address uninvited, damaged her home door locks so they would not work, vandalized her vehicle, and placed a tracking device in her vehicle,” the prosecution stated.

In July 2021, Toole was arrested in a second case of stalking another woman he had previously dated. This occurred during the investigation of the first case.

The second victim indicated that she began receiving messages from Toole indicating he knew her location. She then found a GPS tracker in her glove compartment, and another one on the undercarriage of her vehicle.

Toole dated his second victim for a few months while authorities were investigating the first case. He was ultimately arrested in July 2021.

“Toole also showed up uninvited to her home, pasted large posters of their text communication on her garage, shot a BB gun into her front yard in the middle of the night, and overwhelmed the victim with text messages,” prosecutors said. “He was also seen on a doorbell camera entering the property while the victim was away and driving by her home at all hours of the day and night.”

Toole will be sentenced on Feb. 6. He faces a maximum of three years and eight months in prison.

“The victims in this case were traumatized by the defendant’s repetitive and relentless stalking behavior,” Deputy District Attorney Tessa McCarty said in the release. “It is my hope that this conviction provides them the closure they deserve.”

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS— St. Bernardine of Siena Catholic Church, 24410 Calvert St., in Woodland Hills will be holding its annual fall festival from October 6-8. The hours of operation are as follows; Friday 5:00 p.m.-10:30 p.m., Saturday 2:00 p.m.-10:30 p.m., and Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Ferris Wheel by Junho Vkoo Via Unsplash

Items for the silent auction will be accepted through September 22. The link for the donation page may be found on the St. Bernadine of Siena Catholic Church’s webpage.

Entertainment includes but is not limited to the following nightly features;

Friday, October 6 Bad Habit will be back on stage at the St. Bernardine festival.

Saturday, October 7 The Curious will be performing.

Sunday, October 8 features The Knockoffs, The Dad Bods, and Threshold.

The festival will have age-appropriate rides for the whole family, a beer garden, food booths, and a kiddie area. Admission to the event is free and open to the public.

The rides require tickets that may be purchased at the Church after mass, at the school or at the festival.  

Mass times are on Saturday at 5:00 p.m. and on Sundays 8:30 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 5:00 p.m.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On Tuesday, September 5, at around 11:30 a.m., a resident reported a coyote entering her yard and attacking her small dog.

A woman who goes by, “Nancy,” told CBS Los Angeles that a coyote climbed a 20-foot fence and picked up her dog, Matcha by the neck.  Nancy’s surveillance camera alerted her to the backyard where she encountered the animal trying to scale the fence with Matcha in her mouth.

Nancy saved the dog by screaming and making a loud noise.  The coyote dropped Matcha and left the yard.  Matcha suffered a puncture wound to the neck. The footage released shows Matcha wearing a cone, but barking.

According to the city of Yorba Linda, California Coyote Awareness and Reporting page on their website, this is the time of year for coyote attacks stating:

“Coyotes generally hunt between sunset and sunrise, but may be seen at any hour of the day. Coyotes are most frequently seen and heard during mating season (January-March) and when juveniles start leaving the family pack (September-November). While rarely a danger to humans, coyotes will display defensive behaviors if threatened or cornered. If you do encounter a coyote that behaves aggressively, you have probably gotten too close to its prey or its family, so increase the distance between you and the coyote.”

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—Agri Shahrian, 30 of Woodland Hills, was fatally shot over the weekend in Woodland Hills. His body was identified Monday, August 28, and police are pursuing an investigation.

On Saturday, August 26, police arrived at the 21000 block of Erwin Street at around 7:10 a.m. after receiving a report of a “man down.” According to the LAPD, “Responding officers located a single male victim down in the driveway of a nearby apartment complex. The victim had sustained a gunshot to the chest.”

Shahrian died at the scene. There is no suspect information available at this time.

Anyone with information on the case was urged to call LAPD Valley Bureau homicide detectives at 818-374-9550, or Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS. Tipsters may also use the website www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Christianne

WOODLAND HILLS—Firefighters responded to a fire caused by an “electrical malfunction” on the second floor of a two-story home on Saturday, July 22.

Two elderly residents of the home, located at 4946 Llano Drive, “evacuated themselves from the structure after smelling smoke coming from the floor above,” according to the Los Angeles Fire Department.

Firefighters were dispatched at approximately 9:15 a.m. Within 19 minutes, 18 firefighters extinguished the flames, containing them to the room-of-origin, and preventing the fire from spreading to other areas of the house.   

No injuries were reported, though the Red Cross was notified to assist the two displaced elderly residents.

By Paige Strickland

WOODLAND HILLS—Robert Baker, 61, who is a former porn actor, pleaded no contest on Friday, July 7, in a Los Angeles Courtroom to the stabbing death of Fabio Sementilli, 49, who was a well-known Woodland Hills hairdresser. Baker was sentenced to life without parole for the crime.

According to prosecutors, Baker and his former lover who was Sementilli’s wife, Monica Sementilli, devised a plan to kill Fabio in order to collect more than $1 million in life insurance. Sementilli’s wife is still facing a murder charge which she has plead not guilty to. Her next court hearing is scheduled for July 14.

The hair executive was at his Woodland hills home alone the night the murder occurred back in 2017. Two people in hoodies entered his property and attacked Sementilli from behind. He received a total of seven stab wounds to the neck, chest and thigh.

Shortly after the murder occurred, both suspects entered the master bedroom and ransacked it. Baker went into the kitchen to wash off the victim’s blood and destroy evidence but left his blood behind. They took the DVR from the garage which held the home’s security footage before fleeing in Sementilli’s 2008 Porsche 911. The vehicle was found abandoned about fives away two days later.

At around 5 p.m. that day Sementilli’s youngest daughter Isabelle arrived at the property and found a bloody shoe prints and blood on the floor. She found her dad dead, slumped over on his chair. An autopsy report revealed that his femoral and carotid arteries were cut.

LAPD officials first believed his death was a result of a home invasion burglary. After five months after Sementill’s murder police arrested both Baker and Monica. They were charged with murder, with the special circumstance allegations of lying-in wait and financial gain. This made them eligible that if convicted they would face life without the possibility of parole.

The two were accused of “communication via cell phones and encrypted communication applications regarding their plan to kill victim Fabio Sementilli,” according to the indictment.

“Monica fully intended for Fabio to be murdered,” Los Angeles County Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman previously claimed before a grand jury. “She wanted him out of the way because she wants to be with Robert Baker. She’s unhappy in her marriage, even though at the same time she’s acting like the loving, adoring wife.”

According to the indictment Monia subsequently called a Los Angeles Police department detective several times asking why her husband’s life insurance policy were being withheld.

Luigi, who is the victim’s son, made a statement in court regarding the possibility of dropping the special circumstances charge. “By dropping the special circumstances, justice is threatened. I will never get to speak to my father again. I will never get to experience his warmth, his love, his confidence, or his endless generosity. None of us will. We lost the patriarch of our family,” Luigi said.

Sementilli’s niece by marriage also spoke before the court, “I will never heal from this and there will never be closure for our family. There will always be an emptiness in the shape of Fabio that can never be filled.”

Sementilli was a father of three children. He was known to post motivational videos on social media and enjoyed cigars and tequila.

Many people throughout the hairstyling industry were shocked to hear of Sementilli’s murder.

By Christianne

WOODLAND HILLS—Four people were critically injured in a high-speed crash involving two vehicles on Friday, July 7. The collision occurred at approximately 10:37 p.m. on the 6200 block of North Owensmouth Avenue. 

In an alert, the Los Angeles Fire Department said the individuals involved in the crash endured “varying levels of injuries,” though “all are categorized as ‘critical’ due to the high rate of speed of the collision and extensive damage to the vehicles.”

All four individuals, two from each vehicle, were initially trapped inside. Firefighters conducted extrication operations to retrieve them.

In an updated alert at 11:14 p.m., the Los Angeles Fire Department said that all of the individuals were transported to hospitals to seek medical attention. 

At least one of the individuals involved in the crash was a male, but the age and gender of the other individuals have not been released. 

The cause of the crash is under investigation.

By Paige Strickland

WOODLAND HILLS—Officers with the Los Angeles Police Department’s Topanga Area are seeking the public’s help in finding a man reported missing in Woodland Hills.

Ehssan Darabian, 38, was last seen on Wednesday, June 28, around 10 a.m. He was on foot in the region of the 20600 block of Ventura Boulevard.

Darabian is described as a male, standing 6 feet and 1 inch tall, and weighing 285 pounds. He is bald and clean-shaven and has brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a white shirt, blue jeans, and black shoes. 

“Ehssan’s mental condition is poor,” said the Los Angeles Police Department in a statement.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Ehssan Darabian is asked to contact Los Angeles Police Department Missing Persons Unit at 213-996-1800. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). 

Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS(800-222-8477). Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by texting 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most Keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may go to LAPDOnline.org, click on “webtips” and follow the prompts.

By Paige Strickland

WOODLAND HILLS—A driver suspected of stealing a catalytic converter led Ventura County Sheriffs and the California Highway Patrol on a high-speed car chase that ended in Woodland Hills on Friday, June 2. 

Ventura County Deputies first attempted to pull over a driver in a black Toyota Prius as they suspected a catalytic converter theft was underway in Ventura. The suspect sped away, starting a several-mile chase. 

Once on the 101 freeway, the suspect drove at high speeds of up to 100 miles per hour. Multiple CHP officers pursued the driver, who at times exited the freeway, driving at high speeds on the wrong side of residential streets. 

After two attempted PIT maneuvers, the bumper of the Prius was hanging off and the driver sped off of a dirt embankment to get back on the 101 freeway. 

After 2 pm, the driver surrendered with their hands in the air after a third PIT maneuver at the intersection of Ventura Boulevard and De Soto Avenue in Woodland Hills. A female passenger also exited the vehicle minutes later. Both the suspect and the passenger were taken into custody. The names of the suspect and the passenger have not been disclosed to the public.

By Paige Strickland

WOODLAND HILLS— A 17-year-old male suspect has been arrested in connection to a stabbing of a Metro bus driver on Wednesday, May 25, Los Angeles Police Department Chief Michael Moore announced at a news conference this afternoon. Due to the suspect being a minor, LAPD will not disclose the details of his identity at this time.

At around 5:15 p.m. at the corner of Erwin street and Topanga Canyon Boulevard, a 61-year-old male bus driver was conducting a stop. The male suspect – described as a White male, six feet tall, blonde, curly hair with a thin, yet muscular build – entered the bus and got into a verbal argument with the bus driver, reportedly over “fair evasion.” During the verbal altercation, both individuals stepped out of the bus and onto the street, where the bus driver was attempting to seek assistance with the “unruly passenger.” The suspect proceeded to stab the driver multiple times in the neck, chest and back, “causing grievous injuries.” The suspect then fled away from the location on foot. 

Responding units and the Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics arrived at the scene and transported the victim – who’s identity was not disclosed – to Northridge Hospital, where he remains in “extremely critical condition” but is “still alive.” The victim has reportedly undergone surgery for his injuries.  

“The nature of the injuries that [the victim] sustained were definitely beyond life-threatening, and certainly in many other instances, he wouldn’t have survived the level of this attack,” Chief Moore said in praise of the first responders and hospital staff’s efforts.  

On Thursday morning, May 25, LAPD announced that they were offering a reward to anyone with information that would lead to the suspects arrest. According to Chief Moore, with the help of the media, the community was able to provide tips and leads to the LAPD. Within 22 hours from the incident, the suspect was arrested by Thursday afternoon. 

“1.3 million people travel the bus lines in this region every day. Majority of the time they are safe. Bus ridership safety is something the Los Angeles Police Department takes very seriously,” Chief Moore said during today’s conference. “The largest challenge we face is the low levels of disorderly conduct; people who are verbally abusive to bus operators, and individuals who don’t believe that they have to follow the code of conduct. This type of vicious assault is an anomaly.” 

The family of the victim is “absolutely traumatized” and asks for privacy and space from the media at this time. 

This investigation remains ongoing.

WOODLAND HILLS—A suspect is in custody after a nearly hour-long police pursuit involving a motorcycle on the evening of Thursday, May 18. The chase began after the suspect was reportedly armed with a gun on their balcony near Chaminade College Preparatory High School on the 2300 block of Windom Street and Melba Avenue. The school was not in session, but after-school activities were canceled and students were evacuated.

According to police, they made contact and attempted to secure a containment zone, but the suspect pointed the gun at them and subsequently drove away on a motorcycle. At times, the suspect adhered to traffic laws, stopping at stop signs and red lights, despite driving at speeds of up to 70 miles per hour on residential streets in the West Hills and Woodland Hills area. 

Police tried multiple times to approach the motorcyclist on foot, proceeding with caution in the event that the motorcyclist was carrying firearms. Each time the motorcyclist sped off before they could make contact. The suspect was apprehended once they returned to the residence on Windom Street, closed in by several police officers. 

According to police, the suspect suffers from mental illness and did not respond to efforts to negotiate. 

By Paige Strickland

WOODLAND HILLS—On Monday, May 15, Ken Craft, founder of Hope the Mission, announced the opening of The Woodlands, a new homeless shelter for families. On their website, Hope the Mission, invites the public to sign up to attend the open house that is to occupy the old 818 hotel across from the William Howard Taft Charter School.

“Our mission is to prevent, reduce and eliminate poverty, hunger, and homelessness. We do this by offering immediate assistance and long-term solutions,” reads a statement from the Hope for Mission website.

“You don’t want to miss out on the chance to see our newest family shelter – The Woodlands. This 100-unit, 400-bed facility will provide sanctuary to families experiencing homelessness. We are proud of all the work that has been put into this facility and the hope it will provide for thousands. We invite you to our Open House where you can see for yourself how we are going to positively impact our community!”

The Open House will be held on Saturday, May 27, from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. All who attend are asked to sign up ahead of time on the Hope the Mission website.

“As we prepare to officially open the Woodlands in two weeks, we need help putting beds together and unpacking dressers and nightstands. Please join us this Saturday, May 20th, starting at 9 a.m. to get the rooms ready for families experiencing homelessness! We need to put together 300 beds! The address is 20157 Ventura Blvd., Woodland Hills! Come be part of the solution to addressing homelessness in our community!,” said Ken Craft on his Facebook page.

Hope the Mission was formerly known as Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—On May 5, at approximately 4 a.m., a wild coyote entered the home of Mia Shoshan. The family, who was asleep at the time were awakened by the commotion when the coyote spooked the cat.

According to reports, the cat was walking on top of the dining room chairs and hissing at the coyote. 

Shoshan first told KTLA News that her brother was home at the time and came face-to-face with the coyote captured on surveillance video. The coyote made a quick exit out the same pet door.

Canyon News reached out to Shoshan via messenger, but did not hear back in time for print.

Coyote sightings are not rare in Woodland Hills. On May 29, 2022, a coyote entered the home of Julie Levine via a pet door. Levine told reporters the coyote was only inside for about three minutes.

On December 3, 2022, a toddler was attacked by a coyote on the front lawn of their Woodland Hills home. NBC4 first reported that Ariel Eliyahou heard her daughter’s distressed cries and thought the child must have fallen and hurt herself. The coyote had knocked the little girl down and was attempting to drag her away by the leg when the father of the child pulled up, grabbed the little girl, and scared off the coyote.

Coyotes are most prevalent in their mating season from February-March. Many of the sightings in residential areas in California have been from January through May.

The California Fish and Wildlife Department advise it is illegal to relocate a coyote.  A special permit is required when coyotes become an endangerment to those in residential areas. If a wildlife conflict occurs in an urban environment, Wildlife California encourages residents to dial 911.

By Sharon

BEL AIR—The pilot who was found dead in an airplane that crashed on a hillside above a home at 3045 Beverly Glen Circle on Saturday, April 29, has been identified as 38-year-old Alon Inditzky of Woodland Hills. 

According to the National Transportation Safety Board, Inditzky was flying the small, single-engine Cessna C172 from Bermuda Dunes in Palm Springs to Camarillo when he made a last-minute decision to land at Van Nuys airport. Radar contact was lost about a minute or so later, Elliot Simpson, NTSB’s senior aviation accident investigator told KTLA5. 

By 8:09 p.m., Air Traffic Control notified the Los Angeles Fire Department that they lost radar contact with Inditzky’s plane and asked LAFD to search a foggy, “large swath of mountainous territory near Stone Canyon Road and Mulholland Drive.” By 11:20 p.m., the wreckage was located on a steep hillside and Inditsky’s remains were found at the scene. 

“No other persons were believed aboard,” said Brian Humphrey, spokesperson for the LAFD. 

There was no mayday signal or signs of distress before the crash, the NTSB noted. 

The preliminary investigation is expected to take 2 weeks and will include investigations into Inditzky’s qualifications, his recent history, his training, as well as the aircraft itself and its maintenance history. 

The wreckage still remained on the hillside as of Monday, May 1, KTLA 5 reported.

By Lacy

WOODLAND HILLS—The Los Angeles Police Department’s Operations-West Bureau’s Special Assault Section (SAS) are seeking additional victims and witnesses in a series of sexual assaults in the areas of North Hollywood, Mid-City, Hollywood, and Woodland Hills.

The LAPD reported on February 28, 2023 investigators arrested Matthew Werner, 45, a resident of Las Vegas, on suspicion of a series of violations of rape dating back to 2015.

Werner, a Massachusetts native, targeted women using social media and dating applications using various aliases to avoid detection. He is described as a White male, who stands 6-feet tall and weighs 250 pounds, with blond hair and blue eyes.

Investigators identified five women whom Werner assaulted within the city of Los Angeles, but suspect there are others who have yet to come forward. It is believed Werner has been involved in additional unreported sexual assaults.

Detectives are requesting anyone with details that could lead to the identification of additional victims or witnesses to contact LAPD’s Operations-West Bureau, Special Assault Section, at 213-473-0447. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

Tipsters may visit www.lapdonline.org, and click on “Anonymous Web Tips” under the “Get Involved-Crime Stoppers” menu to submit an online tip. Lastly, tipsters may also download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

By Casey

WOODLAND HILLS—On Thursday, March 16, authorities arrested Daekun Cho, 38, of Woodland Hills at his residence for allegedly extorting “protection” money from Koreatown businesses. According to the District Attorney, in some cases, Cho would use violence against those who refused to pay. 

This federal investigation began about a year ago and investigators discovered that Cho was demanding protection money from karaoke businesses in Koreatown, as well as from “doumi” – or hostesses – employed by patrons of the karaoke establishments.

“To further his extortion scheme, Cho committed shootings, a carjacking, a kidnapping, and other acts of physical violence,” according to the complaint affidavit. “Cho made explicit threatening statements to the doumi drivers and karaoke bar owners to get them to pay a monthly fee.”

Back in 2022, Cho demanded that a doumi driver at a karaoke bar leave the location and, as the driver and two doumis were driving away, they heard gunshots and one of the doumis suffered a gunshot wound to the neck, according to the affidavit. That incident remains under investigation by the LAPD.

In another incident with a doumi driver who refused to pay the protection money after a price increase, was subject to a baseball bat beating, allegedly by Cho and another individual, on May 8, 2021. That doumi driver suffered a broken arm and multiple lacerations according to the affidavit. 

One victim, who had been paying Cho for about four years, claims that he had decided to stop paying Cho before he allegedly assaulted him and stole approximately $1,000 from him on January 24. The affidavit details how that victim, working with law enforcement, made an extortionate $500 payment to Cho on February 16.

Cho was arrested by special agents from Homeland Security Investigations and officers from the Los Angeles Police Department pursuant to a federal criminal complaint filed last week. Both those agencies are working on this case. The complaint charges Cho with interference with commerce by threats or violence which carries a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. He is expected to make his initial appearance Friday, March 17, in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles.

By Christianne

WOODLAND HILLS—On March 8, new reports were released that 500 individuals throughout Southern California are facing layoffs including workers in Woodland Hills. 

According to a report by the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN),  the American General Life Insurance Company, at 21650 Oxnard Street in Woodland Hills, expects to cut 163 employees from their workforce by May 1, 2023.

Canyon News spoke to an employee at American General Life Insurance Company who did not know of the layoffs but promised to follow-up with answers.

WARN reports are generally used for companies that employ 100 employees or more. The American General Life Insurance Company specializes in term life insurance. Reports indicate that the office on Oxnard Street will be closing, but there has not been confirmation of this by American General.

Canyon News sent an email inquiry to the Employment Development Department regarding the WARN report to find out more information.

EDD responded to Canyon News confirming the layoffs of American General’s Woodland Hills employees.

A graph from EDD shows unemployment claims from January 2020 through January 2023. The end product reveals $187,284,424,349 total unemployment claims have been paid in the last three years.

EDD Graph

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—El Camino Real Charter High School was locked down on Tuesday, February 21, due to a report of a shooter on campus. The call was reportedly later found out to be fake, Fox 11 reported. 

At 9:03 a.m., the Los Angeles Police Department received an “unknown trouble” call that there was an active shooter at the 5400 block of Valley Circle Boulevard, LAPD Officer Moran told Canyon News. Officers responded to the scene, and the school remained locked down while an investigation took place. LAPD investigators found no evidence of a shooter and by 10:55 a.m., the school re-opened and students could leave classrooms. 

“An announcement said ‘this is not a drill, this is a lockdown, this is not a drill,” Shaina, an 11th grade student at El Camino Real, told Fox 11. “We just pushed a bunch of desks up against the door. We were all kind of scared, we all went into a corner and we all just huddled together in a corner,” Shaina added. 

Another El Camino student named Hannah texted her father, “Active shooter on campus. I love you and I love mom too. We piled the desks against the door,” Fox 11 reported.

Canyon News reached out to El Camino Real’s Director of Human Resources, Dr. Laury, for comment but did not receive a response before print.  

Fake calls to 911 are illegal and will result in arrests being made. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the LAPD.

By Lacy

WOODLAND HILLS—On Saturday, February 11, a collision between three vehicles in the 5900 block of North Topanga Canyon Boulevard resulted in six victims being hospitalized, the Los Angeles Fire Department announced. 

At 6:25 p.m., the multi-vehicle crash transpired. Airbags were deployed in all three vehicles, LAFD officials stated. Six victims were transported to a local hospital: one listed in critical condition, one in moderate condition and four listed in fair condition. 

Details about the cause of the crash or the identity of the victims have not been released to the public. Canyon News contacted LAFD Spokesperson Nicholas Prange for comment but did not hear back before print.

By Lacy

WOODLAND HILLS—A large tree that was designated as a landmark in Woodland Hills fell crushing over a dozen cars parked in a shopping center located on the 23000 block of Mulholland Drive on Saturday, January 14. 

The tree was referred to as “The Old Oak” and was reported to be approximately a few hundred years old. 

Some people were inside their vehicles when the tree fell to the ground. A bystander helped two people escape from one vehicle, while two others freed themselves from another. No one was seriously injured during the incident.

A clean-up crew arrived on Sunday, January 15, to clear off debris and other remnants of the oak tree.

It is currently unknown what caused the tree to topple over. 

By Christianne

WOODLAND HILLS—A disabled woman who traveled from Albuquerque, New Mexico to visit friends for the holidays had her RV stolen sometime between December 24, 2022 and December 25.

Jill Silverthorne was spending the night at a friend’s on Christmas Eve and had her RV parked outside. She awoke to find that her RV was missing and all her belongings gone. One of the items within the RV was her electric wheelchair. She is currently relying on her walker to get around. 

Silverthorne spoke to Canyon News in an interview. The RV allowed her the freedom to see family and friends she explained. After the crime took place, both she and the friend she was staying with asked around the neighborhood to see if anyone was able to catch the crime on video. Most of the residents either had their cameras off or they weren’t working.  

She has not been able to travel back to her home since the crime occurred. 

Silverthorne had been saving for 10 years to obtain her custom RV and it took her 5 years to find it. It was designed to help her as a disabled person travel. She found the RV in Everette, Washington and it is equipped with all the necessary adaptations to the brakes and the steering wheel so she could travel. It also included a wheelchair.

She found the RV online and flew to Washington to purchase it. Once she got the vehicle she traveled south across multiple states to bring it back to her home and endured a major storm while transporting the vehicle. 

The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating the theft and her niece started a GoFundMe to help Silverthorne during this ordeal. So far they have made $1,940 of their $100,000 goal. To donate visit the GoFundMe page.

Anyone who may have information regarding this crime is asked to contact LAPD at 818-756-4820. Police currently do not have a suspect.

By Christianne

WOODLAND HILLS—An Extended Stay America and an 818 Hotel in Woodland Hills were purchased by the city of Los Angeles to be converted into homeless housing units as first reported by Fox 11 on Thursday, December 29. 

The plans for 818 Hotel are being turned over to Hope of the Valley, whose mission is to house families experiencing homelessness. “It’s an ideal location” said Hope of the Valley President Rowan Vansleeve to the news outlet. “The children in these families can now go to school nearby.”

The Extended Stay will be turned over to Volunteers for America to House Seniors. According to their website, the organization provides housing for seniors who want to live independent lifestyles where they can thrive and age in place.

Both facilities are planning to open in spring 2024.

Some members of the Woodland Hills community are concerned over the new shelters stating that they did not have a say in the process and the new facilities are located by two schools. One will be located right across the street from Taft High School and the other is less than 50 yards from the Temple Kol Tikvah Preschool. 

Canyon News contacted the Woodland Hills Homeowners Association, Hope of the Valley and Councilmember Bloomberg for a statement but did not hear back before print.

By Christianne

WOODLAND HILLS—On Tuesday, December 27, the Missouri-born owner of the Los Angeles Rams, Stan Kroenke, purchased The Village Shopping Mall near the Rams stadium. Kroenke bought the mall from Unibail-Rodamco Westfield (URW) for $325 million.

Reports indicate that Kroenke may turn one of his shopping center purchases into a training facility for the Rams who have been attending a training camp at a Lutheran Church facility in Thousand Oaks since returning to Los Angeles.

Kroenke’s purchase did not include the nearby Westfield Topanga Shopping Center that is currently being renovated. URW sold another property in Arcadia, California for $537.5 million. Both sales are among the largest commercial deals made in 2022 nationwide.

His group purchased the Promenade Mall from URW earlier this year along with the old Anthem property in Warner Center. The entitlements for The Promenade already included approved plans for a stadium, but Kroenke did not indicate that either facility would be utilized for training purposes for the Rams.

By Sharon

WOODLAND HILLS—Three people were injured in a car crash on Wednesday, December 22, at around 8 a.m. in the 21400 block of West Ventura Boulevard. 

Among those injured was a 35 year-old woman, a 57 year-old man, and a 66 year-old woman. The elderly man and woman were seriously injured and were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

The crash resulted in a vehicle fire which was extinguished by Los Angeles Fire Department personnel. There is currently an investigation regarding what led up to the accident by officials. 

By Christianne

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills indicated in a press release that the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) will issue a new Health Officer Order that requires customers to show proof of their COVID-19 vaccination prior to entering indoor bars, wineries, breweries, nightclubs and lounges.

Under the modified Order, employees and customers are required to have at least one vaccine dose by October 7 and both doses by November 4.

The New Health Officer Order will require workers and attendees at outdoor mega events (consisting of crowds over 10,000 people) to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours before working or attending the event.

Attendees at indoor mega events are already required to show proof of vaccination or a negative test prior to entry. These requirements will also apply to theme parks within the county.

While not required, LACDPH also recommends vaccine verification at indoor portions of restaurants to reduce transmission risk.

This announcement impacts businesses in the City of Beverly Hills. When available, theupdated Health Officer Order can be viewed at beverlyhills.org/coronavirus.

To find the nearest vaccination site, visit VaccinateLACounty.com or beverlyhills.org/covidvaccine. For questions about business impacts from the new Health Office Order, email businessrecovery@beverlyhills.org.

To stay updated on the latest COVID-19 news, visit beverlyhills.org/coronavirus or call the City’s COVID-19 Hotline Monday-Friday from 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. at 310-550-4680.

By Donald