Tag: firefighter

BEVERLY HILLS—On Friday, July 10, Beverly Hills Fire Department Chief Greg Barton announced his retirement. Barton served the Beverly Hills Fire Department for 31 years and was Fire Chief for the last 9 years. 

Chief Barton earned multiple awards throughout his years of service, including Firefighter of the Year recognition from the Kiwanis Club, the BHFD Felix Rothschild Award, and recognition from the Beverly Hills Masonic Lodge.

“On behalf of myself and my family, I would like to express my eternal gratitude to the members of the Beverly Hills community and my colleagues across the organization for their decades of support and friendship. I have contemplated retirement for several years, but this decision is not easy. I will treasure the memories always and wish Ryan and his leadership team continued success. Beverly Hills is in good hands,” Barton announced regarding his retirement to the city of Beverly Hills.

In 2021, Chief Barton was honored with the city’s highest recognition for outstanding service to the community, leading him to earn the Fred C. Cunningham Award for Distinguished Service from the Beverly Hills City Council. 

 “Over the last three decades, he has become an integral part of the community, earning the respect and admiration of residents, business leaders, and City staff.  His tremendous work ethic and commitment to public health will be deeply missed.  I am grateful that Greg will continue to serve as Chief through the upcoming recruitment process in order to ensure a smooth transition,” stated Beverly Hills City Manager Ryan Gohlich.

Aside from his work in the fire department, Barton also serves on the boards of multiple charitable organizations and was the past president of the Beverly Hills Rotary Club.

By Ryley Metten

BRENTWOOD—On Thursday, July 18, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office disclosed that Steve Farzam, 46, of Brentwood has been charged with 28 criminal counts — including 23 felonies — for a string of alleged crimes that occurred between 2023 and May 2025, including impersonating a firefighter during the Palisades Fire, assaulting a first responder, and discharging a laser at aircrafts.

On January 16, Farzam allegedly posed as a firefighter during the Palisades Fire, gaining access to restricted emergency zones and interfering with emergency operations.

The various alleged offenses span more than a year and includes incidents that put public safety and emergency personnel at serious risk.

Felonies that Farzam face include:

-Six counts of discharging a laser at an aircraft.
-Three counts of assault with a deadly or dangerous weapon.
-Four counts of assault upon a peace officer.
-One count of impersonation of a public officer, investigator or inspector.
-One count of carrying a loaded unregistered handgun in a vehicle.
-Seven counts of perjury by declaration.
-One count of procuring and offering false or forged instrument.

And the following misdemeanors:

-Two counts of impersonating a fire officer.
-Three counts of trespassing on closed lands.

The defendant pleaded not guilty during his arraignment. He is currently being held without bail. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 28 in Department 30 of the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center.

If convicted as charged, Farzam could face up to 23 years and 10 months in state prison. The charges filed in this case are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

By Danny Jones

STUDIO CITY—On Monday, April 15, the Los Angeles Fire Department announced on their website they are mourning the loss of Recruit Firefighter Jacob Fuerte, 22.

It was reported at 5:14 a.m. on Monday, an incident occurred on the NB 101 freeway at Vineland Avenue in Studio City. Fuerte was on his way to the Drill Tower Academy for training may have been involved in a traffic collision. He got out of his vehicle to assess the situation and help anyone in need when he was struck by another car. LAFD firefighter paramedics responded to the scene, but declared Recruit Firefighter Fuerte deceased.

Fuerte joined the LAFD on February 12, 2024. He was in week 10 of a 20-week rigorous training program. He is survived by his father, two sisters, and a brother.

Recruit Fuerte’s father is a 17-year veteran Firefighter/Paramedic with the department, and has dedicated his life to helping others.

“I received devastating news this morning that one of our colleagues lost their life tragically. He had just started his firefighting career, which requires courage, bravery, and prioritizing others before oneself. Our thoughts and prayers remain with his family during this most difficult time.” said City of Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is conducting a hit-and-run investigation into this tragedy’s circumstances. Any members of the public with information that may assist with this investigation, are encouraged to contact the CHP West Valley Area Office at 818-888-0980 Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

By Trevor