Tag: LAFD

GRIFFITH PARK—On Friday, October 24, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported an automobile fire in Griffith Park. The incident was reported at 7:39 p.m. on Eastbound 134 freeway.

Three conventional fuel vehicles on the top rack of an auto hauler caught fire (unknown source of ignition). The bulk of the fire was knocked down quickly by the 12 firefighters on scene.

The Forrest Lawn off ramp was closed for an unknown period of time due to the now disable big rig blocking lanes. The California Highway Patrol was on scene directing traffic, but there were long delays on the EB 134 freeway. There were no reports of any injuries. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

 

By Danny Jones

 

 

 

WESTWOOD—On Monday, October 20, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported a fire was extinguished in Westwood.

The fire was reported at 4:40 p.m. at 1545 S Bentley Avenue. One auto vehicle was on fire in the subterranean parking of a four-story modern apartment building (three residential floors over parking).

The fire was extinguished in 21 minutes by first-arriving companies, with no injuries reported.

Though the fire itself was contained to the vehicle, firefighters are now working to evacuate smoke from the building and shut down all activated sprinklers. No details on the cause of the fire have been disclosed to the public.

 

By Danny Jones

 

 

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Saturday, October 18, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported a structure fire at 11:32 p.m. The fire transpired at a one-story single-family dwelling located at 6720 W. Sunset Blvd.

There was a well-involved with fire and exposing two additional structures: a motel to the east and another single-family home to the south. Firefighters coordinated a defensive attack on the primary structure and prioritized protection of the other two buildings.

The fire was knocked down in 40 minutes with a total of 59 firefighters on scene. There were no reports of any injuries. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

 

By Danny Jones

 

 

GRIFFITH PARK—On October 15, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported a multi-vehicle accident that occurred on Tuesday, October 14, at approximately 11:30 p.m. The crash involved a black Nissan Pathfinder, a black Honda Civic, a white Toyota Camry and an overturned semi-truck in the northbound lane of 5-Freeway resulting in an oil spill. According to CHP officer Elizabeth Kavig, the semi-truck driver lost control of the vehicle. Consequently, it tipped over crashing into the other vehicles in its path blocking traffic onto Ventura Freeway (134). Roads in the area were reportedly shut down until October 15 at approximately 5:00 a.m. due to the fuel and debris clean up. The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) reported the following information on the LAFD Alert page: “Hazardous Materials, Sun Valley-Box truck on its side (corrected to upright) with a fuel leak from the saddle tank (fuel tank which sits alongside a truck’s frame). Firefighters stopped the leak and are working to contain any run-off. It is a static situation with no serious injuries. Two patients – one declining LAFD transport and one being evaluated). A reduced number of resources will handle the incident. Traffic will remain impacted on the SB 5 for an undetermined period of time.”   By Sharon

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Tuesday, September 23, the Los Angeles Fire Department announced they battled a two-story fourplex fire on 2327 N. Beachwood Drive. The fire was reported at 5:47 p.m. with light smoke initially showing and fire inside a wall, as reported by the first-arriving company.

Due to the complex location, firefighters carefully ensured all hot spots were extinguished before declaring knockdown at the 32-minute mark.

LADOT requested for traffic control in the area, while LAFD crews remained on scene for overhaul of the damage. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined and there were no reports of any injuries.

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Tuesday, September 2, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported a brush fire at 2199 N. Sunset Plaza Drive. The blaze was reported at 6:40 p.m.

First responding companies report one vehicle on fire, with flames burning uphill through medium-heavy brush toward one hillside home. Air and ground resources from both LAFD and LA County Fire were sent en route.

Approximately a 1/4 acre of heavy vegetation was burning uphill. There were no structures currently involved, but several homes uphill were threatened and being prioritized for structure defense. Water drops from LAFD helicopters significantly slowed fire progress below the homes. Approximately 80 LAFD personnel were dispatched, including air resources and hand crews.

By 7:30 p.m., officials reported all active flames have been extinguished and forward progress stopped. Helicopters will continue water drops between homes to cool hotspots, while hand crews begin working toward 100 percent containment on the very steep terrain. Shelter-in-place orders issued for Genasys zones LFD-0817, LFD-0819, and LFD-0911 (bit.ly/sunset-plaza-ic), which were later lifted. There were no injuries reported.

BRENTWOOD—On Tuesday, September 2, a car collision left one person trapped, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported. The incident was reported at 1:11 p.m. at 11740 W Gorham Avenue.

The victim was an 80-year-old female who was initially pinned beneath a vehicle following an auto-vs-pedestrian incident.

The victim was extricated by firefighters and will be transported to a local hospital. The condition of the patient is unknown at this time. The cause of the collision has not been disclosed to the public.

BRENTWOOD—On Friday, August 29, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported a pedestrian was killed after being struck by a vehicle.

The incident was reported at 10:43 a.m. at 16551 W. Park Lane Circle. A work vehicle collided into a pedestrian. The pedestrian was determined deceased on scene. Media questions are kindly referred to LAPD Inc# 2056. CAL OSHA Van Nuys Division notified per protocol.

The name and age of the victim have not been disclosed to the public.

SHERMAN OAKS—The Los Angeles Fire Department had to battle a brush fire that was reported at 1:53 p.m. at 15350 W Burbank Blvd. A total of 1.5 acres of medium-to-heavy brush burning uphill toward Burbank Boulevard at a moderate rate of spread, driven by light winds.

Crew 4 arrived on scene with first-arriving companies; additional ground and air resources have been requested. Dozer lines from previous burns are expected to help keep this fire in check. Forward progress has been halted on this brush fire, estimated at just over nine total acres.

Though flames impacted brush along the south side of Burbank Boulevard, firefighters prevented spread north of the road. There were no reports of any injuries — fire companies proceeded with extreme caution due to damaged trees and branches throughout the burned area.

Heavy equipment crews are en route to assist with mop-up and the establishment of bare-earth dozer lines around the perimeter, with full containment expected to require an extended operation into early evening.

Motorists were encouraged to use alternate routes and avoid the immediate area.

By Danny Jones

BEVERLY HILLS—On Sunday, August 17, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported they battled a structure fire in Beverly Grove.

The fire was reported at 10:17 a.m. at 321 S San Vicente Blvd. Paramedics with the LAFD transported a 30-year-old female with serious burns to a local hospital.

A total of three occupants and a pet cat escaped the smoke-charged residence, reportedly following a microwave malfunction.

The LAFD Arson is investigating the cause of the fire. No additional details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Danny Jones

BRENTWOOD/PACIFIC PALISADES—The Los Angeles Fire Department had to rescue 2 hikers recently in Brentwood and Pacific Palisades.

On Friday, August 15, officials received a report of a hiker in trouble at 11:40 a.m. at Mandeville Canyon Park.

LAFD ground and air responded to an exhausted octogenarian male hiker on a remote section of the Westridge Spur Trail south of the Mandeville Fire Road in Mandeville Canyon Park.

An LAFD Rescue Helicopter lowered a Flight Paramedic to medically assess the patient, who declined hospital transport. The LAFD air crew hoisted the man and LAFD Flight Paramedic into the hovering helicopter for transfer to a safe landing location at Will Rogers Park. No additional details about the incident has been disclosed to the public.

On Saturday, August 16, a hiker had to be rescued after the LAFD received a call at 10:44 a.m. at 3001 Rustic Canyon Rd. The LAFD air and ground resources are coordinating to aid an injured mountain biker (29 year-old male, fair condition) on a remote trail. Crews hoisted the patient to an LAFD helicopter and will transport directly to a local hospital.

By Dann y Jones

BEVERLY HILLS—On Monday, August 11, at approximately 10:45 a.m., the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) South Bureau responded to a call for a fire at Beverly Towers Condominiums located at 1115 S. Elm Drive in Pico-Robertson. Firefighters arriving at the scene discovered the fire was visible from the balcony of the 4th floor of the six-story building.

LAFD upgraded the fire to a Knockdown structure fire and requested assistance. The fire was contained to one unit. Forty-four responding Firefighters were able to extinguish the fire within 26 minutes, protecting the floors above from further spread.

According to a press release on the LAFD website’s alert page, firefighters found and rescued a 94-year-old woman who was trapped in a hallway nearby. She was having difficulty breathing. She was treated at the scene. She and a second patient and a 54-year-old man with minor injuries, were both transported to an area hospital for treatment.

The fire temporarily affected travel in the area.

Pico Robertson is a charming community just west of Beverly Hills that dates back to 1920. It is rich in Jewish culture and known for its delis and specialty shops.

By Sharon

SHERMAN OAKS—The Los Angeles Fire Department reported a one-story fire at an automotive repair business on Friday, August 8.

The blaze was reported at 7:29 p.m. at 13300 W Burbank Bl. By 7:45 p.m. the LAFD reported 40 firefighters took just 16 minutes to access, confine and fully extinguish fire within a freestanding one-story 2,100 square foot automotive repair facility of cinder-block construction. The property was built in 1955.

There were no reports of any injuries. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

By Danny Jones

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Thursday, August 8 that they battled a structure fire that was reported at 5:13 p.m. on 1931 N. Wilcox Avenue.

The fire was showing from one second floor unit of a two-story apartment building. By 5:28 p.m., the LAFD indicated that the first arriving 30 LAFD firefighters took just 15 minutes to access, confine and fully extinguish fire within the second floor of a two-story ascending hillside apartment building.

There were no reports of any injury. Though a lithium-ion battery may have been involved in the fire, the specific cause of the blaze is under active investigation with the Fire Department.

By Danny Jones

TOPANGA CANYON/MULHOLLAND—On Tuesday, August 5, the Los Angeles Fire Department conducted a search pertaining to a possible missing person.

The incident was reported at 8:17 a.m. The LAFD Ground and Air performed a comprehensive search of remote terrain near Caballero Canyon Trail north of Mulholland Drive in response to a mountain biker reportedly hearing (but not seeing) someone they believed to be a “older person” repeatedly “calling out for help.”

By 9:45 a.m. after a comprehensive and systematic search by ground and air of remote mountain terrain on and near the Caballero Canyon Trail north of Mulholland Drive, no person was found.

The LAFD responders formally concluded their mountain area search. No other hiker or mountain bicyclist in the vicinity reported hearing or knowing of a person in distress, and the LAFD has received no reports of any person missing in the region.

By Danny Jones

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Sunday, August 3, the Los Angeles Fire Department had to assist with rescuing a hiker. The incident was reported at 1:04 p.m. on Runyon Canyon Road.

LAFD ground and air resources are coordinating to aid a 41M hiker with an isolated extremity injury — patient will be airlifted from a remote trail area and transported directly to a local hospital. No additional details about the incident were disclosed to the public.

By Danny Jones

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

BRENTWOOD—Two hikers had to be rescued on Friday, July 25, by officials from the Los Angeles Fire Department.

The first incident was reported at 1:35 p.m. at 12701 W Chalon Rd. LAFD Ground and Air responded to a downed hiker in Mandeville Canyon. An LAFD Flight Paramedic was lowered down to an ill hiker on a hard to access trail.

Flight crews initiated a hoist rescue of the downed hiker to ensure prompt treatment and transport. LAFD Air Ambulance will transport the patient to an area hospital for continued treatment and evaluation.

The other incident transpired about 90 minutes later at 3:11 p.m. near Queensferry Road. LAFD Air Operations conducted a helicopter hoist to remove an injured mountain biker from a difficult to access trail in Sullivan Canyon.

The hiker suffered injuries following a fall from her mountain bike. LAFD flight paramedics stabilized the patient prior to conducting the hoist recovery and subsequent transport to a local area hospital.

No additional details about either incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Danny Jones

BEL AIR/MULHOLLAND—On Friday, July 25, the Los Angeles Fire Department had to rescue an individual who fell from a cliff.

At 4:24 p.m. officials received the call of someone falling more than 100 feed on 14200 W. Mulholland Drive in Beverly Crest at the Stone Canyon Overlook.

LAFD Urban Search and Rescue team is setting up a rope system to lower paramedics to the patient for evaluation. LAFD Air Operations is enroute to assist as necessary.

Thanks to the efforts of 45 firefighters, one adult female was safely rescued from a perilous position on a hillside. The patient reportedly fell down the side of the hill after losing balance while peering over the edge of the hillside.

The LAFD Urban Search and Rescue crews set up a low angle rope system to safely move the patient up to street level. The patient was transported to a local area hospital for further evaluation.

By Danny Jones

BRENTWOOD—On Saturday, July 19, the Los Angeles Fire Department performed a helicopter hoist rescued for an injured bicyclist.

The incident was reported at 11:24 a.m. at West Mandeville Fire Road. The LAFD ground and air response with Los Angeles Park Rangers attended to an injured adult male mountain bicyclist who sustained serious injury on a remote section of the West Mandeville Fire Road south of Mulholland Drive.

An LAFD Rescue Helicopter has lowered a Flight Paramedic to join ground crews in medically assessing and stabilizing the patient.

Officials will be hoisted aboard the hovering helicopter with the LAFD Flight Paramedic for continuing in-flight care during direct air transport to an area hospital. No additional details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Danny Jones

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—The Los Angeles Fire Department reported that they battled an auto fire on Wednesday, July 16. The fire was reported at 4:49 p.m. at 1855 N. Argyle Avenue.

The fire was erupting near the rear of a one-story strip mall (exposed unit doing business as a doughnut shop).

Firefighters quickly extinguished the auto fire and determined there was NO extension into the commercial building. There were injuries reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

By Danny Jones

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Sunday, July 13, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported a brush fire was reported in the Hollywood Hills at 11:47 a.m. The fire was located at 3026 Runyon Canyon Road. LAFD air and ground resources are coordinating an attack on a 1/4-acre brush fire in Runyon Canyon — slow rate of spread, approximately 100 feet from a paved road.

By 12:25 p.m., the LAFD reported that approximately 53 firefighters on the ground fully extinguished all active flames and remained on scene for mop up. Air resources assisted with water drops ahead of the flame front and have now been released from the incident.

The cause of the brush fire is still under investigation.

By Danny Jones

SHERMAN OAKS—On Saturday, July 12, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported they had to rescue a hiker in need.

The incident was reported at 5:40 p.m. at 14807 W. Round Valley Drive. One patient, a 24-year-old female had an isolated lower extremity injury.

She was hoisted via LAFD air ambulance and transported to a local hospital for treatment. No additional details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Danny Jones

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Wednesday, July 9, the Los Angeles Fire Department battled a fire on a freeway overpass. The fire was reported at 3:16 p.m. at Universal Studios Boulevard and Hollywood Freeway.

The fire was deep within a concealed space inside the freeway overpass, a bridge of concrete construction above the freeway. The California Highway Patrol was also on the scene.

By 5:30 p.m. the LAFD reported they extinguished the stubborn fire involving rubbish and debris compartmentalized deep within the concrete bridge structure infrastructure.

Though there is no obvious structural impact from the flames, Caltrans will be responsible for any assessment or remediation required.

By Danny Jones

BEL AIR/BENEDICT CANYON—The Los Angeles Fire Department received an alert about a brush fire in Beverly Crest at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 9.

The fire was reported at 1600 N. San Ysidro Dr. LAFD ground and air response with automatic aid from the neighboring Beverly Hills Fire Department to a slow moving one-quarter (0.25) acre wildfire involving light grass in steep terrain in a hillside residential neighborhood. There was no imminent threat to homes in the area and no evacuation. This incident is known as the “Spur Fire”

Officials worked stopping forward progress of the fire via a well-coordinated direct attack on flames that consumed less than one (1) acre of light-to-medium grass and brush in steep terrain between homes on San Ysidro Drive and Ferrari Drive. No structure damage was reported.

By 3 p.m. the brush fire was reported contained by the LAFD. An LAFD UAS (drone) unit will provide aerial reconnaissance and command support with thermal imagery, as ground crews continue to mop up hot spots this afternoon.

San Ysidro Road will remain closed to through traffic in both directions between Summitridge Drive and Tower Road until LAFD operations are complete.

Though landscapers were reportedly working in the neighborhood when the fire erupted, the fire’s cause remains categorized as “under investigation,” with the specific cause and origin of the fire yet to be determined.

By Danny Jones

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—The Los Angeles Fire Department reported a brush fire in Runyon Canyon on Wednesday, July 2.

The incident was reported by officials at 12:54 p.m. at 300 Runyon Canyon, where a 5′ x 5′ patch of grass was burning in the region.

Companies on scene extinguished the active fire and remained in the area to ensure all burned material is thoroughly cooled and contained. No details have been disclosed as to the cause of the brush fire.

By Danny Jones

GRIFFITH PARK/HOLLYWOOD HILLS—The Los Angeles Fire Department had to rescue a hiker who needed assistance on Sunday, June 29.

The incident was reported at 5:30 p.m. where LAFD Air and Ground Response with L.A. Park Rangers to an ill adult male hiker on a remote section of the Wonder View Trail east of the Wisdom Tree in Griffith Park.

An LAFD Rescue Helicopter was lowered to a Flight Paramedic to medically assess and stabilize the patient. They were later hoisted along with the LAFD Flight Paramedic into the hovering helicopter for continuing in-flight care during direct air transport to an area hospital. No additional details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Danny Jones

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Monday, June 23, the Los Angeles Fire Department were called to a traffic scene to assist with several people trapped in a vehicle.

The incident was reported at 6:24 p.m. at 6100 W. Afton Place. Four patients (unknown age/gender/conditions) were trapped inside a vehicle on its side, secondary to a two-car collision.

Firefighters on scene are working to stabilize the vehicle, that allowed them to safely extricate, assess, and treat all patients.

Three of the patients described as a 33-year-old female, a 15-year-old female and a 17-year-old female, were all transported to a local hospital for treatment. They were listed in fair condition.

By Danny Jones

BRENTWOOD—A traffic collision led to a fatality on Monday, June 23, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported. The incident was reported at 2:02 a.m. on the southbound 405 freeway in Brentwood near Moraga Drive.

A total of three patients (unknown age/gender/condition) were involved. Officials were on scene following the incident. According to reports, one officer sustained injuries during the incident.

One patient was determined to be deceased on scene; two patients were transported to local hospitals for injuries sustained. The collision involved a pickup truck and sedan, KTLA reported. No additional details about the deceased victim and the other victims have been disclosed to the public.

The media has been referred to the Los Angeles Police Department INC#0367 regarding details about the collision.

By Danny Jones

CALIFORNIA—The Los Angeles Fire Department battled a structure fire at a massage business on Tuesday, June 17 in the Beverly Grove area.

The incident was reported at 4:13 p.m. at 8217 W. Beverly Blvd. By 4:33 p.m. the fire was extinguished by 46 firefighters in 20 minutes.

The building is a split level, one story in the front with two stories in the back. The fire was lapping out the first story window up to the second floor at the rear of the building.

Firefighters conducted a transitional attack (applying water from the outside) to quickly knock back some of the fire while crews readied for an interior fire attack.

The fire was prevented from extending to the second floor or the attic. One patient is being evaluated for a minor burn injury. There were no other occupants located inside the building. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

By Danny Jones

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Monday, June 16, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported at brush fire in the Hollywood Hills region.

The fire was reported at 10:07 p.m. at 2297 N. Fern Dell Drive. The approximately 30 feet x 30 feet area of heavy brush was burning on a hillside.

It was extinguished by first arriving companies who remained on the scene to fully cool and contain the burned area.

There were no reports of any injuries during the incident, the cause of the fire has not been disclosed.

By Danny Jones

PACIFIC PALISADES—On Monday, June 9, the Los Angeles Fire Department battled a grass fire in Pacific Palisades.

The fire was reported at 12:44 p.m. at 13530 W. Sunset Blvd. Approximately 1/8 acre of medium to heavy brush was burning uphill (45-degree slope) with no wind.

There was one structure threatened by the fire, which firefighters defended from any potential damage.

Crews utilized hand lines encircling the perimeter. They remain on scene to conduct mop up operations to ensure no hot spots remained. The fire was fully extinguished at 1:19 p.m. officials reported.

The cause of the grass fire has is under investigation, and there were no reports of any injuries during the incident.

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Sunday, June 1, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported a tree rescue of a male.

The incident was reported at 2:13 p.m. at N. Mt. Olympus Drive. Officials were originally called in as a non-specific Engine response, firefighters located an approximately 30 year-old male stuck in a tree canopy, about 20 feet above the ground, in medical distress.

The incident was upgraded and LAFD Urban Search and Rescue trained firefighters conducted a rescue operation, safely extricating the patient from the trees using a rope system and the aerial ladder.

The patient was transported to a local hospital in serious condition. No additional details were disclosed about the incident which concluded at 4:06 p.m.

By Danny Jones

SANTA MONICA—On May 30, the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) issued a traffic alert notifying the public that the Eastbound lane of Pico Boulevard between 27th and 30th streets closed due to a traffic collision. the public was advised to use alternate routes. This was just one of many LAFD’s calls for rescue during a time of budget cuts.

On May 30, at 2:27 p.m., the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) was called to a traffic collision at the southbound lane on the 110 Freeway. E1 and E4 were dispatched to the scene.

May 30, at 2:28 p.m., LAFD firefighters responded to a call for a vehicle fire at 2206 E. Barlow Street. Units E202 and T2 were dispatched.

On May 30, at 2:47 p.m., LAFD Bot reported that units E10 and RA( were dispatched to a traffic collision at 328 E. Washington Boulevard.

LAFD Bot reported an LAFD call for a traffic collision on May 30, at 3:33 p.m. to 150 91 Freeway in the Westbound lane. Units E79, E285, and T85 were dispatched to the scene.

LAFD firefighters responded to a call on May 30, at 4:20 p.m. to a traffic collision at 6500 W. Olympic Place. Units RA861 were dispatched.

According to an alert by LAFD Bot, on May 30, at 4:33 p.m. LAFD firefighters were called to the rescue at 1570 (Northbound lane) of 5 Freeway for a traffic collision. Units E77, E289, and T89 were dispatched.

On May 30, at 4:39 p.m., LAFD firefighters responded to a call for a smoke investigation at 5233 Templeton ST. Unite E212 and T12 were dispatched.

Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor, Karen Bass have received a large quantity of backlash on social media over their lack of support of the Los Angeles Fire Department.

One such post on the X social media site reads as follows.

“DEI and Policy Under Fire

Karen Bass in Ghana

$17.6M Budget Cut to LAFD

DEI Fire Chief Promote Diversity Over Competence

$2008 Water Diverted to Ocean for Fish

Stop Clearance of deadwood

1000+ Structures Burned

People Died”

On Wednesday, May 25, another person shared a photo of the Sepulveda Basin fire. LAFD crews knocked down a blaze that reportedly ignited near a homeless encampment in Van Nuys.

On May 28, another commenter wrote about a fire that got out of control. The post can be seen on X with photographs of the fire.

“Another catastrophe was barely averted by LAFD last week when Gavin Newsom’s $37 billion homeless solution started an encampment fire on Gavin Newsom’s refusal to do any real forest management or wildfire prevention in the state.” The post got 17,500 views.

Multiple firefighters posted photos of vehicle fires, fires started on the sidewalk in town… All shared a similar message indicating that a good portion of their calls are to put out fires started by the homeless population.

By Sharon

TOPANGA CANYON—The Los Angeles Fire Department reported on its Facebook page that a hiker had to be rescued on Sunday, May 25.

The LAFD reported at 7:09 p.m. on Sunday, LAFD Ground and Air Resources were deployed to assess and extricate an injured adult male hiker who reportedly fell approximately 30 feet in a rugged and remote section of the popular Stoney Point rock climbing area (east of Topanga Canyon Boulevard, south of the Ronald Reagan [118] Freeway).

An LAFD helicopter lowered a flight paramedic via cable and harness to treat and prepare the patient for a hoist rescue back into the hovering helicopter. Paramedics continued in-flight care during direct helicopter transport to a regional trauma center for the victim.

No additional details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Danny Jones

STUDIO CITY—On Saturday, May 24, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported a brush fire at 3:36 a.m. on 3100 N. Coldwater Canyon Avenue.

It was approximately one acre brush burning downslope. LAFD Air Ops were conducting water drops while firefighters work to traverse the terrain and deploy a long (estimated 2000′) hose lay for a direct attack.

Wind conditions are 5-7mph winds. Due to the terrain and isolated area, a significant number of resources are enroute to assist.

By 4:42 p.m. all forward progress stopped. The fire was held to approximately 1.5 – 2.0 acres near the Betty Dearing Trail.

LACoFD camp crews are responding to assist with the mop up operations. No structures were damaged, and no injuries were reported. Firefighters were on the scene for an extended period ensuring no hot spots remain in the isolated terrain.

By Danny Jones

PACIFIC PALISADES—On Wednesday, May 21, the Los Angeles Fire Department announced they battled a structure fire in Pacific Palisades.

Officials received the call at 1:06 p.m. about a one-story fire at 1174 N. Las Pulgas Place.

There was smoke showing upon arrival. Firefighters went into offensive mode against a working attic fire.

By 1:42 p.m., the fire was reported extinguished by 32 firefighters in 36 minutes. There were no injuries reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

By Danny Jones

WEST HOLLYWOOD/BEVERLY HILLS—On Sunday, May 11, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported they extinguished a structure fire in Beverly Grove.

The incident was reported at 5:52 p.m. at 106 S Flores Street at a two-story garden-style apartment, where light smoke was showing from the first floor.

Firefighters proceeded in the offensive mode and knocked down the fire in one vacant unit in 23 minutes. Officials remained on scene for overhaul.

There were no reports of any injuries. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

By Danny Jones

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

SHERMAN OAKS—On May 1, at approximately 8:00 p.m., the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD), Valley Bureau And Air Operations responded to an injured hiker in distress down below Mulholland Drive in Beverly Crest on a remote hiking trail.

According to the LAFD website alert page, the hiker was suffering from an isolated leg injury. LAFD ground and air resources coordinated to extract the stranded hiker on a 46’ downslope.

The hiker was transported to an area hospital by LAFD Air Operation. The current condition of the patient is unknown.

By Sharon

WESTWOOD—On April 22, The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD), West Bureau, responded to a call of smoke coming from the roof of West Wilshire Residential Apartments located at 10401 W. Wilshire Boulevard.

According to the LAFD website’s Alert page, firefighters first on the scene discovered that the smoke was coming from the elevator room on the roof of the 11-story apartment complex of building 18.

The fire was fully extinguished in 20 minutes. LAFD reported the fire, Incident # 1384 was out at 6:18 p.m.

By Sharon

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Tuesday, April 15, the Los Angeles Fire Department announced they were assisting a jumper on 101 Freeway, which was closed (short term) as a result. The incident was reported at 12:32 p.m. on the southbound 101 freeway at Cahuenga.

The individual was a female patient, but her age was unknown, who was originally on the edge of the overpass and moved onto the 101 Freeway towards the center divider.

LAFD fighters were able to shut down the freeway and make contact with the (uninjured) patient. The freeway will remain closed until the rescue ambulance can reach the patient and safely move off the freeway. Drivers were advised to avoid this section of the freeway for the short term.

The female was safely moved away from the freeway by officials. No additional details about the jumper or incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

WESTWOOD—On April 14, at approximately 10:35 p.m., a pedestrian was fatally struck by an individual driving a dark blue Mazda hatchback. According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) online reports, a driver was traveling at a high rate of speed and struck a pedestrian crossing the street outside the lines of the crosswalk. The driver then the scene without stopping to attempt to render aid to the injured party.

Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) paramedics responded to the scene and attempted life saving measures on the victim, but he succumbed to his injuries.

The deceased was a 70-year-old male from the Los Angeles area. His identity is being withheld pending the notification of the next-of-kin.

LAPD is seeking public assistance in identifying the driver of Mazda. A $25,000 reward is available through the Hit and Run Reward Program to community members who provide information leading to positive identity, arrest, and conviction of hit-and-run drivers.

Those with more information are encouraged to contact LAPD West Traffic Division detectives at (213)473-0234 or 1-877-527-3247 on nights/weekends.

By Sharon

GRIFFITH PARK—On April 10, it was reported by the LAFD that they rescued a hiker at 5 p.m. on Toyon Trail.

LAFD Ground and Air Response with Los Angeles City Park Rangers to an adult male hiker who reportedly sustained a snake bite while on a remote section of the Toyon Trail in Griffith Park.

The patient was transported in fair condition by Park Rangers to the nearby Toyon Helispot, where the patient is being transferred to the LAFD helicopter, which has landed.

The LAFD Flight Paramedics will provide in-flight care during direct transport to an area hospital stocked with antivenom, that is awaiting their arrival. No details on the type of snake that bit the hiker has been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Sunday, April 13, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported battling a first-floor fire at an apartment building. The incident was reported at 1:34 p.m. at 5901 W. Gregory Avenue.

First arriving companies quickly extinguished fire in 1 unit on the first floor of a 3-story apartment building, then noted fire extended into a wall. Companies on scene are currently ensuring full knockdown.

Rechargeable scooter noted in fire unit — HazMat specialists are attached to manage disposal of lithium-ion battery. One patient was being assessed on scene who is listed in fair condition.

By 2:03 p.m. firefighters reported the fire was reported extinguished in 28 minutes with 47 firefighters on scene. HazMat specialists remain en route, with no anticipated escalation beyond the apartment unit involved. No additional details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Wednesday, April 9, the Los Angeles Fire Department revealed that they participated in a technical rescue in Beverly Crest.

The incident was reported at 9:23 a.m. at 9829 W. Yoakum Drive. A hillside retaining wall (railroad ties) started to buckle approximately 15 feet from a three-story ascending hillside home.

It appears to be an ongoing issue. LA Dept of Building and Safety were notified to respond. There are no injuries and no apparent structural damage to the home. No further details about the incident have been reported to the public.

By Trevor

BEVERLY CREST—On Tuesday, April 9, at 9:23, the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Valley Bureau responded to a technical rescue at 9829 W. Yoakum Drive. The home is located on a dead-end street off Benedict Canyon Drive. According to the LAFD website alert page, the hillside retaining wall has buckled.

The retaining wall, which is made predominantly of railroad ties, is approximately 15 feet away from the residents three-story ascending hillside home.

First responders indicated that the crumbling retaining wall appears to be an ongoing issue and notified the LA Department of Building and Safety. There were no reported injuries.

By Sharon

SHERMAN OAKS—The LAFD battled an apartment fire on Thursday, April 3. The blaze was reported at 8:38 a.m. at 13420 W. Huston Street. Smoke was showing from the third floor, and there was an active fire in one first floor unit of a two story apartment building.

By 9:06 a.m. officials reported that the fire had been extinguished. A total of 54 LAFD Firefighters took just 28 minutes to extinguish fire in a two story garden style apartment building that quickly extended from one first floor unit to a pair of units on the second floor of the 76 year-old structure.

One adult male civilian who experienced smoke exposure was transported by LAFD ambulance to an area hospital in undetermined condition. Another civilian at a nearby address is currently being evaluated at scene by paramedics for the LAFD for an unspecified medical complaint. The cause of the fire is under active investigation.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Sunday, April 6, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that at 12:51 p.m. they battled a fire at 1750 N. Wilton Place.

The blaze involved a 2-story boarded-up craftsman home with smoke and fire showing from the rear of the property. Firefighters proceeded in offensive mode and located fire between two detached garages.

Minor involvement of one structure. Firefighters fully extinguished with first arriving companies in 16 minutes. No occupants were found, no injuries reported.

Firefighters remain on scene for overhaul; DOT has been notified for traffic control. No additional details about a cause for the fire has been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Monday, March 31, the Los Angeles Fire Department announced that they battled a structure fire in Hollywood. The blaze was reported at 7:48 a.m. at 5441 W Lemon Grove Avenue.

The blaze involved a 2-story duplex with smoke initially showing from the second floor. Firefighters discovered fire in one room and achieved knockdown within 18 minutes.

There were no occupants found and there were no injuries reported as a result of the fire.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On March 20, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that they battled a blaze at the Hollywood Hotel. The fire was reported at 8 p.m. at 7047 W. Franklin Avenue.

First arriving companies reported a two-story garden style apartment, doing business as the Hollywood Hotel, with fire and smoke showing from a unit on the first floor.

By 8:14 p.m. firefighters were able to knockdown the blaze in 14 minutes with 35 firefighters on scene. Crews remain on scene for overhaul and to ensure no fire spread beyond the unit of origin. DOT has shut down Franklin Ave between La Brea and Orange.

By Trevor

WESTWOOD—On Thursday, March 20, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that they battled a structure fire.

The fire was reported at 5:26 a.m. at 542 Glenrock Avenue. Officials battled a 5-story apartment building with heavy smoke coming from one unit.

Companies made access to the unit of origin and adjacent units to check for fire extension, achieving knockdown in 25 minutes with 34 firefighters on scene. All occupants were evacuated and there were no reports of any injuries during the fire.

By Trevor

GRIFFITH PARK—On February 16, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that a hiker had to be rescued in Griffith Park.

The incident was reported at 10:13 a.m. at 4730 Crystal Springs Drive. Firefighters on the ground and in the air coordinated efforts to locate and assess a hiker, a 44-year-old female, with an isolated ankle injury in Griffith Park.

Due to the hiker’s remote location, helicopter personnel are initiating a hoist operation and air transport to a local hospital. No additional details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

WESTWOOD—On February 7, the Los Angels Fire Department reported they had to rescue an individual trapped in a vehicle after a crash.

The incident was reported at 6:44 p.m. on the northbound 405 freeway. First arriving companies report a traffic collision with three total patients (age/gender currently unknown), one of which is trapped in a vehicle. Two patients are in critical condition, one is in fair condition. Companies are on-scene coordinating to extricate the patient from the vehicle.

By 7:13 p.m., officials reported three total patients were transported to local hospitals following the traffic collision, that include an 80-year-old female in critical condition; a 66-year-old male in critical condition; a 60-year-old female in fair condition. One patient, a 72-year-old female was pronounced deceased, as well as one dog in a vehicle and one dog that was reported missing on NB 405. Details about the deceased female have not been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

SANTA MONICA—On February 10 at 11:33 a.m. the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) responded to a call of a structure fire at 2235 Johnston Street in Lincoln Heights. Firefighters arriving at the scene reported a fire on the second floor of a four-plex multi-family structure.

According to the Alert page on the LAFD website, 54 firefighters were able to extinguish the fire in 14 minutes. Quick action from the first responders prevented the fire from spreading by keeping it contained to the unit it originated in.

Paramedics transported one individual to an area hospital. The patient’s condition is unknown. There were no other reported injuries to residents of the dwelling or the firemen.

There have been no reports indicating the cause of the fire.

By Sharon

WESTWOOD—On Saturday, February 8, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported a technical rescue involving a tree trimmer. The incident was reported at 11:05 a.m. at 1326 S. Comstock Avenue.

The first-arriving company reported a tree trimmer shocked by electrical wires, alert and oriented, but snagged in safety equipment and was still hanging in the tree. The victim’s trimming pole was trapped in high-tension wires, with ongoing potential of intermittent contact between wires and patient. Firefighters on scene coordinated with the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power to de-energize wires and rescue the patient from the tree.

By 11:56 a.m., officials reported after pole-to-house high voltage wires were de-energized and confirmed safe by LADWP, the patient was a 40-year-old male who was secured and lowered approximately 25 feet out of the tree via ground ladder. He was assessed and transported to a local hospital. No additional details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

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

SHERMAN OAKS—The Los Angeles Fire Department reported a brush fire in Sherman Oaks on Wednesday, January 22 at 11:01 p.m. on the Northbound 405 freeway.

At 11:42 p.m., officials issued an EVACUATION WARNING for residents SOUTH of 1500 block of Casiano Road NORTH of Moraga Drive EAST of Sepulveda Boulevard WEST of Chalon Road. There is an approximately 10-acre brush fire burning on the Sepulveda Pass.

By 1:55 a.m. the LAFD lifted the evacuation warning. All Forward Progress Stopped with the fire held at approximately 40 acres. The Evacuation Warning is LIFTED. There are no structures damaged and no injuries reported.

Firefighters will remain on scene through the night conducting mop up operations to ensure no hot spots remain. Traffic on the 405 Freeway will likely remain impacted as crews and apparatus work alongside the freeway.

Drivers are advised to refer to https://cad.chp.ca.gov/Traffic.aspx for traffic updates.

By Trevor

GRIFFITH PARK—On Monday, January 20, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that battled a brush fire that broke out in Griffith Park. The blaze was reported at 1:02 p.m. at 162 Griffith Park. Officials were alerted of a 1/2 acre light grass burning into medium brush on slope. Firefighters on scene worked to quickly contain the flames.

By 1:33 p.m. the LAFD reported that 1/4 acre medium brush burning on a slope below Griffith Observatory was fully extinguished in 31 minutes. All threatened structures were successfully defended and undamaged. No additional details about the brush fire or the cause have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

PACIFIC PALISADES/TOPANGA CANYON—On Sunday, January 19 at 2 p.m. the Los Angeles Fire Department announced that EVACUATION ORDERS REDUCED TO RESIDENT-ONLY ACCESS.

Those zones include: LOS-0767-J (North of Santa Ynez Road; South of Temescal Fire Rd; East of E Topanga Fire Road, Colina Drive; West of Temescal Fire Road), LOS-0767-G (North of Observation Drive; South of Topanga Canyon Boulevard; East of Montau Drive; West of Topanga Canyon Boulevard).

Resident escorts are required for LOS-0767-J and will be conducted from 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Residents in need of access should meet at 1150 Pacific Coast Highway (Parking Lot 3 North) in Santa Monica.

ADDRESS VERIFICATION REQUIREMENT: When approaching the roadblock, residents must provide proof of residency. Acceptable forms of identification are a photo ID that displays the resident’s name, photo, and physical address. Individuals should have these documents ready to ensure a smooth verification process. EVACUATION WARNINGS REDUCED TO NORMAL: LOS-0767-C, LOS-0767-B, LOS-Q0762-A, LOS-Q0762-C. daily.

The large area is generally defined by: North of Pacific Coast Highway; West of S Cliffwood Avenue / Canyonback Road / Mulholland Drive / Escalon Drive / Encino Hills Drive; South of Reseda Boulevard / Lochgreen Drive / Vanalden Ave, East of Casale Road / Mandeville Canyon Road / Mulholland Drive / Vanalden Avenue.

By Trevor

LOS FELIZ—On Wednesday, January 15, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that one person was killed after a vehicle crashed into a building.

The incident was reported at 1:38 a.m. at 1826 N Western Avenue. Officials arrived to find one vehicle into a two-story apartment building with a total of three patients.

Two patients were trapped under the vehicle (in the apartment unit) and required extrication: approximately a 50-year-old male patient was determined deceased on scene, 9-year-old male patient transported in serious condition. The name of the victim has not yet been disclosed to the public.

A 34-year-old female patient (driver) was transported with minor injuries. There are a total of seven displaced occupants. Red Cross and Mayor’s Crisis Response Team notified to provide help.

LA Dept of Building and Safety will determine whether the building is safe for occupation. No further details about the incident or the cause has been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—At 6:20 a.m., the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that the brush fire in the Hollywood Hills West as a result of the Sunset Fire that led to evacuation orders North of Franklin Avenue from Camino Palmero St (East border) to N Sierra Bonita Ave. (West border) would re-open at 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 8.

Approximately 10 acres was burning between Runyon Canyon and Wattles Park. A Mandatory Evacuation Order was in place for Laurel Canyon Boulevard (on the west) to Mulholland Drive (on the north) to 101 Freeway (on the east) down to Hollywood Blvd (on the south).

The brush fire at 2350 N Solar Drive had previously closed off that section because of the Sunset Fire. It will now be OPEN and all evacuation orders LIFTED. The LAFD will still be working in the area and ask individuals to be careful while returning to their homes.

By Trevor

STUDIO CITY—On Wednesday, January 8, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported a 4-story house fire at 8:52 p.m. The blaze was reported at 3656 N Sunswept Drive.

By 10 p.m., firefighters reported the fire had been knocked down. It took over 50 firefighters to extinguish the fire. There were no reported injuries during the incident.

The fire extended into the surrounding vegetation, created small spot fires and caused some (extent not known at this time) damage to exposed buildings.

The collapse of the home was captured by reporters on live television with Fox 11 in Los Angeles.

By Trevor

PACIFIC PALISADES—On January 7, at 10:30 a.m., the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD)reported a brush fire that began at 1190 N. Pedra Morada Drive has escalated to a fire consuming 20 acres. At 12:38 p.m., LAFD reported that the fire had spread to 200 acres.

“There are now mandatory evacuation orders in place which fall within the polygon described as: Northeast is Merriman Road west to Topanga Canyon Blvd and south to PCH.
Westwood Recreation Center is open as an evacuation center[1350 S. Sepulveda Blvd] and accepts small animals.”

At 2:23 p.m. LAFD confirmed that the current evacuation plan had not changed, but the fire had spread to 770 acres. Neighboring fire departments joined in the effort to fight the fires, and are now approximately 250 firefighters strong. Firefighters are battling the flames that were complicated by arid conditions, water rationing, and strong winds.

At 4:30 p.m. new reports indicated that the fire had spread to 1,262 acres and growing. Evacuation plans are still in place. Westwood Recreation Center will accept families with small animals even overnight.

Pierce College located at 6201 Winnetka Avenue, 91367 is the large animal evacuation center. Residents with large pets may evacuate there.

Reports indicate that the majority of Pacific Palisades is on fire. Residents who are near the evacuation zone are asked to prepare for possible evacuation.

By Sharon

HOLLYWOOD—On Saturday, December 21, the LAFD reported a structure fire at 1:48 a.m. at 5613 W. Lexington Avenue in Hollywood. The 3-story center hall style apartment building had a fire located inside an elevator machine room on the roof of the building. By 11:48 a.m., officials reported the blaze was extinguished.

It took 43 firefighters to extinguish the fire in 32 minutes. The bulk of the fire was contained to the elevator machine room with minor extension into the attic space. There were no injures reported.

Crews remained on scene to work on hitting any remaining hot spots in the void spaces. No details on the cause of the fire have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

GRIFFITH PARK—On Saturday, December 21, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that at 9:55 p.m. on 2700 N. Vermont Avenue.

The LAFD ground resources on-scene of a small fire approximate 20’x50′ patch of vegetation located west of the Greek Theatre. The fire was held in check by hose lines LA City Park Rangers deployed prior to LAFD arrival.

By Trevor

SHERMAN OAKS—On December 19, the Los Angeles City Fire Department announced the arrest of a serial arsonist responsible for a series of fires in the Sherman Oaks area.

On October 20 at 10:30 p.m. the LAFD responded to a series of vehicle and structure fires in the region of Ventura Boulevard and Kester Street. The Major Crimes Division identified a man in his 40s as being responsible for the fires.

On December 18, the suspect was identified as Ricardo Villanueva, 42, who was detained by Van Nuys patrol officers for unrelated traffic violations. He was arrested for the arson that transpired on October 20 and booked for 451 (c) PC: Arson of a structure and 451 (d) PC: Arson of Personal Property. His bail was set at $230,000.

There is an on-going investigation with ACTS and LAPD Major Crimes to determine if Villanueva is responsible for the spree of connected arson fires around December 17. Including the 4700 block of Kester Avenue for a carport fire that exposed the adjacent apartment complex and destroyed four parked vehicles, the 4600 block of Columbus Street for a structure fire, and the 15000 block of Ventura Boulevard for a commercial building fire, or any other incidents.

Anyone with information is asked to call Major Crimes Detectives at 213-486-7260. 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 L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

SANTA MONICA—On Saturday, December 21, surveillance footage shows that a U-Haul trailer with an estimated $40,000 in toys was stolen from the Windsor Park home of Eugene “Big U” Henley. As reporters gathered at the home to cover the story, a neverending stream of trucks loaded with toys showed up in front of the Henley home to replace the stolen toys that were slated to go to boys and girls in the Crenshaw community.

Big U, manages his family’s non-profit, “Developing Options,” and managed the careers of the late L.A. rapper, Nipsey Hussell, and rapper and record producer, Ricardo Emmanuel Brown, better known as, “Kurupt.” He is also the father of Los Angeles Chargers Linebacker Daiyon Henley. Big U was featured in a 2021 FX Documentary, “Hip Hop Uncovered.”

Daiyon Henley first told a KCAL reporter, that, “At one point there was a lack of hope. But, you got certain people in this community that won’t go for it and I think that just shows the strength within. And that’s what you got right now, a community that rallied back and made it happen.”

Due to the generosity of the Los Angeles Fire Department, and the community the toys were replaced. The Henley family has not lost hope that the person responsible for the theft of children’s toys will choose to do the right thing, and return the original trailer full of toys.

By Sharon

SHERMAN OAKS—On Tuesday, December 17, the Los Angeles Fie Department extinguished a structure fire in Sherman Oaks. The 9-1-1 call was first received at 10:32 p.m. By 11:14 p.m. officials reported the blaze was extinguished at 4721 N. Kester Avenue.

Firefighters extinguished multiple vehicles as well involved in the fire inside a carport (one was an hybrid). Two apartment units sustained broken windows and the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power was notified for damage to the electrical panels for the two exposed buildings.

There were no reports of injuries. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

By Trevor

SHERMAN OAKS—The Los Angeles Fire Department announced on Tuesday, December 17 that it battled a rubbish fire in Sherman Oaks.

The incident was reported at 8:40 p.m. on the southbound 405 freeway. Firefighters used a water tender, they were able to quickly apply large amounts of water while driving alongside the fire while firefighters deployed handlines.

Two additional engines were requested to battle the fire. There are no structures threatened and no injuries reported.

By Trevor

BEL AIR—On Wednesday, December 11, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that at 8:30 p.m. that battled a brush fire located at 820 N Sepulveda Blvd. Officials initially received the call as an auto fire response, it was upgraded to a brush fire response due to fire extension into the vegetation. Estimated at 1/4 of medium brush on the side of the SB 405 Freeway.

By 9:10 p.m., officials reported that the blaze was extinguished. Firefighters worked quickly to get lines in place on the flanks of the fire while additional crews handled the hybrid auto which ignited the brush fire.

No structures were damaged and no injuries reported. Firefighters will continue to address hot spots which may impact the southbound 405 Freeway. No further details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

SHERMAN OAKS—On Saturday, December 7, the Los Angeles Fire Department battled a structure fire in Sherman Oaks. The blaze was reported at 8:52 p.m. at 4605 N Tobias Avenue.

The fire involved a one-story single family dwelling with a detached garage fully involved with fire. Reports of imminent roof collapse and downed power lines. No additional details about the blaze have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

LAUREL CANYON—On November 27, at 4:43 p.m., the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) responded to a call of a structure fire at 8541 W. Lookout Mountain Avenue, in Hollywood Hills West. Once the fire was extinguished, the body of an elderly male, later identified as William “Will” Rothschild of the Jewish banking empire established in the 19th century in Germany.

The home he resided in was a mansion. The Rothschilds were a prominent family in the banking industry in the 18th and 19th centuries and are still known today as one of the wealthiest families in the United States. Though their legacy began in Frankfurt Germany, it lives on today through the heirs of the Rothschild dynasty who live in homes throughout the United States who prophet still today from the fruits and labor of their ancestors.

The Daily Mail first reported that Lord Jacob Rothschild of the same banking family, died last February at age 87. Reports indicate that William Rothschild was in his 70s.

The initial post on the Alert page, on the LAFD website was made by LAFD spokesperson, Brian Humphrey who described the fire as an “offensive fire attack at the two-story ascending hillside home with fire showing”. LAFD Valley Bureau was first on the scene.

The second post was made at 5:16 p.m. and added an address correction. The fire progressed into a knockdown structure fire with a civilian fatality.

“45 LAFD Firefighters took just 33 minutes to access, confine, and fully extinguish [the] fire.” One person whose age and gender had yet to be determined was found dead.

On November 27, at 6:02 p.m., a third update on the incident was listed as fire #1178.

“Flames were confined to the first floor of the two-story hillside home, and prevented from extending to vegetation or nearby residential structures. Discovered deceased within the premises was an elder adult male. No other injuries [were] reported.

The Mayor’s Crisis Response Team has been summoned to provide emotional support and assistance to the decedent’s family and neighbors. The cause of the fire remains under active investigation. The cause, time, and manner of the man’s death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner.”

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

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Saturday, November 23, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that it battled a small debris fire in Hollywood Hills.

The LAFD reported at 10:31 a.m. a fire at 2059 N Laurel Canyon Bl. Small debris flow from a retaining wall failure onto N Laurel Canyon Road. No structures were damaged and no injuries were reported. Traffic was closed in the southbound lane of N. Laurel Canyon at Kirkwood.

The Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) is responding and will make the determination if full closure is required. The incident is transitioning to LADBS and no further information is forthcoming from the LAFD.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD—On Tuesday, November 19, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that at 1:34 a.m. at 1086 N. St. Andrews Place in Hollywood. The blaze was reported at a one-story row of commercial with fire from one unit (a laundromat).

By 2:01 a.m., 74 firefighters extinguished the fire in 27 minutes with no injuries reported. Crews held the fire to the unit of origin (laundromat), preventing the spread to the common attic or adjoining units. Cause TBD. No further details about the fire has been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

GRIFFITH PARK—On Friday, November 15, the LAFD reported that a small brush fire at 2800 E Observatory Rd. at 3:08 a.m. Approximately 1/4 acre of brush burning by a trail below Griffith Observatory. This is topography driven with no wind and no structures threatened.

The LAFD reported at 4:29 a.m. that through the use of both air and ground attack, firefighters knocked down the fire with no injuries reported and no structures damaged. There were crews that stayed on the scene conducting mop up operations into the morning.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Saturday, November 16, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that a fast-moving fire in Hollywood consumed an automotive parts store and seriously damaged a pair of adjacent restaurants.

The LAFD received the first of several 9-1-1 calls at 4:21 p.m. on November 16, reporting a fire at 1306 North Highland Avenue in Hollywood.

Firefighters arrived quickly at the northeast corner of Highland Avenue and Fountain Avenue to find heavy smoke showing from AutoZone, an automotive parts retailer anchoring a 10,100 square foot one-story L-shaped strip mall that shared a roof and attic with an adjoining delicatessen and sushi restaurant.

Assuring all occupants safely evacuated AutoZone, first arriving firefighters, bolstered by additional responders, commenced an unwavering attack with handlines on ever-growing flames deep within the auto parts store for a half-hour, until conditions became untenable due to visible structural compromise.

The flames were fed by contents of the auto parts store that spread within the attic to heavily impact the northern section of Fat Sal’s Deli and the adjacent Sushi Ajito, a well-coordinated transition was made to defensive operations as 124 LAFD responders under the command of Assistant Chief Douglas Lewis worked tirelessly for an additional 90 minutes to fully extinguish the major emergency blaze before any off premises buildings could be affected. There were no injuries were reported.

Though 9-1-1 callers initially reported an “explosive fire” involving a “battery” within the auto parts store that employees sought unsuccessfully to control with fire extinguishers, the specific cause of the fire remains under active investigation.

By Trevor

SHERMAN OAKS—On November 14, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that a plane crash near the Sepulveda Dam. At 7:08 a.m., the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to reports of a downed plane in the 15000 block of W Burbank Blvd in Sherman Oaks.

Firefighters located a small, older Cessna plane, upside down, in a dirt area near the Sepulveda Dam. The field, directly adjacent to the 405 Freeway, was charred from a previous grass fire but there was no fire from the plane crash. Two occupants, an adult male and female, had already safely exited the aircraft prior to LAFD arrival.

After being assessed by LAFD firefighter/paramedics, both patients, suffering only minor injuries, declined transport to the hospital. The incident was transitioned to the team of agencies which will handle the crash investigation, including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board, (NTSB).

Unrelated to the incident but located only a short distance away, a large rubbish fire next to the 405 Freeway put off a dark smoke plume. Firefighters worked from both the freeway and the street level to knock down the fire with no damage to structures and no injuries reported.

By Trevor

PACIFIC PALISADES—On Wednesday, November 12, at approximately 10:30 a.m. firefighters from the Los Angeles Fire Department, West Bureau, responded to calls of a brush fire in the area of 1400 N. Palisades Dr.

Firefighters arriving at the scene found that the fire was burning adjacent to the reservoir. First reports indicated the fire was burning over a five acre area. The following information came directly from the alerts posted on the LAFD webpage at 10:57 a.m.

“Over 60 firefighters on scene have stopped all forward progress. The precisely targeted, rapid water drops from LAFD Air Operations combined with the firefighter’s aggressive fire attack on the ground held the fire to approximately one acre (revised from initial size up). No structures damaged and no injuries reported. Due to the steep terrain and the work required to conduct a mop up operation, all resources will remain on scene.”

Reports indicate that the fire was not spread by wind, but topography (through the brush/terrain).

By Sharon

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Monday, November 11, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported they were battling a greater structure alarm fire in Hollywood.

The LAFD reported the incident at 11:24 p.m. on West Gregory Avenue. Offensive fire attack on flames from a one-story commercial building threatening a one-story home and three-story apartment building.

By 11:50 p.m. 54 Firefighters took just 26 minutes in an offensive fire attack that confined flames to a one-story detached garage at the rear of the property, preventing fire spread to an adjacent one-story home and three-story apartment building.

There were no reports of any injuries. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

By Trevor

PACIFIC PALISADES—The Los Angeles Fire Department reported on Friday, November 8 at 11:29 a.m. that they had to rescue a hiker at 20825 Entrada Rd.

Preliminary details indicate the LAFD ground and air response to an ill adult female hiker on a remote section of the Musch Trail / Backbone Trail in Topanga State Park.

An LAFD Rescue Helicopter lowered a Flight Paramedic to medically assess and stabilize the patient, who will soon be hoisted along with the LAFD Flight Paramedic into the hovering helicopter for continuing in-flight care during direct air transport to an area hospital.

By Trevor

SHERMAN OAKS—On Tuesday, November 5, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that two vehicles were involved in a collision involving a fire hydrant. The incident was first reported via a 9-1-1 call at 1:23 p.m. at 4300 N. Calhoun Avenue.

There was a two vehicle collision involving a fire hydrant with a 78 year-old male who was transported to a local hospital in fair condition. Prior to LAFD shutting down the hydrant, water was hitting the roof of a commercial building of DBA Guitar Center resulting in a partial collapse.

There were no reported injuries in the building. The LA Dept of Building and Safety was notified to respond for building evaluation. There were no additional details about the incident reported to the public.

By Trevor

SHERMAN OAKS—On October 30, the Los Angeles Fire Department battled a structure fire near a strip mall. The incident was reported at 9:11 p.m., at 13443 W Ventura Blvd. Offensive firefighting operations at a two-story strip mall with fire showing from one business on the first floor.

By 9:35 p.m., the first arriving 32 LAFD firefighters took just 24 minutes to access, confine and extinguish flames within one ground floor business at a the rear of a two-story garden-style strip mall. There were no reported injuries as a result of the fire. The cause of the blaze is under investigation.

By Trevor

STUDIO CITY—The Los Angeles Fire Department battled a brush fire on Friday, November 1. The incident transpired at 1:42 p.m. at 3790 N Lankershim Blvd.

Firefighters worked to extinguish three separate small vegetation fires along the 101 freeway and Universal Blvd. LACoFD had an engine on scene assisting.

By 12:27 a.m. near 50 Universal Studios Blvd. firefighters extinguished each of the small fires and are now conducting mop up operations to ensure no hot spots remain. There were no structures damaged and no injuries reported during the incident.

By Trevor

WESTWOOD—On Tuesday, October 29, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that at 10:59 a.m. they responded to a traffic collision at 470 S. Veteran Avenue.

The two-vehicle collision involved five patients, two of whom are trapped inside the wreckage. The LAFD indicated at 11:34 a.m. the trapped individuals were freed from the wreckage.

All five patients (1 serious / 4 fair condition) were transported to area hospitals for treatment. No additional details about the cause of the accident or the conditions of the victims have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

SHERMAN OAKS—On Monday, October 21, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that at 2:38 a.m. a structure fire in Sherman Oaks had been extinguished at 13817 W Ventura Blvd.

At 2:07 a.m. firefighters responded to a structure fire to find an outside fire extending into a 50’ x 100’ one story, commercial building.

A knockdown was achieved in 31 minutes with no injuries reported. The metal clad building sustained damage across the back and into the rear of the building. No further details about the fire has been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Thursday, October 10, the Los Angeles Fire Department disclosed that two people were rescued. The incident was reported at 4:38 p.m. at 7665 W Fountain Avenue.

A two-vehicle collision caused one vehicle to careen into the corner of a building. A total of three patients, two (one in each vehicle) were trapped requiring extrication. The third patient sustained minor, non-life-threatening injuries. The LA County Fire Dept was on scene conducting one of the auto extrications. The extent of the injuries to the trapped patients is not known at this time.

By 5 p.m. the LAFD reported that both auto extrication operations were complete with patients safely removed. Three patients are being transported: a 70-year-old female (condition unknown) being transported by LA County Fire, and a 30-year-old male in at least serious condition and another 70-year-old male (with his condition unknown).

No additional details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Wednesday, October 9, the city of Beverly Hills posted on its Facebook page that a small brush fire erupted in the Franklin Canyon Reservoir area (within the city of Los Angeles boundary). The incident was first reported at 11:15 a.m.

Resources from the Beverly Hills Fire Department were on scene assisting LAFD and LA County Fire.

The fire is surrounded and not expected to advance, and we expect full extinguishment shortly. There were no homes threatened at the present time. By 12:20 p.m. the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that the brush fire at  1403 N Lake Dr. that all forward progress has stopped.

Firefighters held the brush fire to less than 3/4 acre with no structures damaged. There were no reported injuries. This incident is determined to be in LA County Fire jurisdiction.

By Trevor

WEST HOLLYWOOD/MELROSE—On Tuesday, October 8, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported a structure fire at 11:39 p.m. The fire was at 335 N Fairfax Avenue near Beverly Grove. It took 90 firefighters to extinguish the fire in 1 hour and 17 minutes.

There were no injuries reported during the incident. The two businesses were vacant. The exposed units were defended from damage. Per protocol, LAFD Arson is responding for the investigation. No further details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

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

GRIFFITH PARK—On Sunday, October 6, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that they had to rescue a hiker near Mt. Hollywood Drive at 8:39 a.m. Firefighters and paramedics located one hiker with a medical emergency in a remote area approximately one mile from Griffith Observatory.

The LAFD Rescue Helicopter hoisted the patient and directly transported to a local hospital by air. No additional details about the incident were reported to the public.

A hiker was also rescued by officials on Saturday, October 5 in Hollywood Hills. That incident was reported at 12:31 p.m. at 3824 Mt Lee Dr. A female, approximately 45-years-old sustained a lower extremity injury in a remote area near the Hollywood sign.

Paramedics located her and provided treatment on the ground prior to preparing her for a hoist. The LAFD Rescue Helicopter performed the hoist operation to bring her out of the remote area and is transported her to a local hospital in fair condition.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Thursday, September 19, the Los Angeles Fire Department battled a structure fire in Hollywood Hills.

The incident was reported at 1:52 p.m. at 2930 N Cahuenga Blvd. Approximately one-quarter acre of light-to-medium brush burning, with one structure threatened. By 2:20 p.m., the LAFD provided an update where firefighters found a hillside behind a home burning and quickly deployed hose lines around both flanks of the fire.

It took 36 firefighters to extinguish the flames in 28 minutes, keeping the fire from affecting structures on a nearby residential property. One wooden fence sustained minor damage. The total size of the burned area is between approximately 1/8 to 1/4 of an acre. There were no reported injuries during the blaze. The cause of the fire is still under investigation by officials.

By Trevor

GRIFFITH PARK—On Sunday, September 22, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that they rescued a hiker near 2800 E. Observatory Rd. The incident was reported at 7:26 p.m.

Park Rangers located the hiker down approximately 75 feet from the ridge. The hiker was uninjured but stuck in a precarious location.

Park Rangers deployed a rope rescue system and lowered a rescuer to secure the patient. As firefighters met them on scene, they were conducting a raising operation to rescue the individual. The patient was safely brought topside and evaluated to ensure no injuries. No additional details about the incident was disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

PACIFIC PALISADES—On Saturday, September 21, the LAFD indicated that they rescued a hiker near Temescal Fire Road. The incident was reported at 10:02 a.m. The LAFD Air Opps located and is conducting a hoist operation with transport for a 40-year-old male in medical (non-traumatic) distress.

By 10:41 a.m., the LAFD provided an update on the incident. After further evaluation of the location and disposition of the patient resulted in the decision to transport the patient by ground ambulance. There were no additional details about the incident disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

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

PACIFIC PALISADES—On Sunday, September 8, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported they rescued a hiker in Will Rogers State Park. The incident was reported at 1:18 p.m. at 20825 Entrada Road. Firefighters located two hikers in a remote area of Will Rodgers State Park.

One hiker was experiencing heat-related illness symptoms, but declined hospital transport after being evaluated by paramedics.

LAFD Air Operations hoisted both hikers into the rescue helicopter and brought them to a nearby landing zone to get them safely back to their vehicle. They were re-evaluated one more time after the short flight. No additional details about the incident have been reported to the public.

By Trevor

STUDIO CITY—A brush fire was reported at 1 p.m. by the Los Angeles Fire Department on Sunday, September 8. The brush fire was reported at 4222 N Vineland Avenue near The Garland Hotel and the Front Yard restaurant.

Approximately one-half of an acre of brush burning between a parking lot and the Hollywood Freeway. Crews established hose lines around both flanks to apply water to the area.

Within 22 minutes, the LAFD reported that firefighters indicated that a strip of vegetation was burning behind the parking lot near the Hollywood Freeway. A contingent of 49 firefighters stopped all forward progress of the fire keeping the burn area to less than a half-acre.

Crews remained on scene to mop up the area, looking for any remaining hot spots to cool. There were no reports of any injuries. The cause of the brush fire is under investigation.

By Trevor

BEL AIR—On August 27, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported an industrial fatality that occurred in Bel Air. The incident was reported at 10:10 a.m. at 10663 W. Chalon Rd.

One adult male worker (unconfirmed age / affiliation / circumstances) was gravely injured while working in the vicinity of heavy equipment (an auger and a skip loader possibly). The incident transpired at a hillside residential construction site. There was a quick response from LAFD crews, but the victim’s injuries proved fatal and he remained at the scene as officials completed their investigation.

There were no other injuries reported. Anyone with media inquiries should contact the Los Angeles Police Department West Los Angeles (Incident #1862), Cal-OSHA and Medical Examiner. No further details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—The Los Angeles Fire Department reported a hiker was rescued in Hollywood Hills on Monday, August 26. A 9-1-1 call was received at 8:11 p.m. regarding hikers at 6301 W Innsdale Drive who were lost.

The LAFD Air Operations conducted hoist operations to secure two female hikers in their 20s, uninjured but lost. Air Ops located them to a helispot where firefighters evaluated them and facilitated them returning to their transportation.

There were no additional details about the rescue mission disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—The Los Angeles Fire Department reported a chemical spill that transpired on Saturday, August 24. The incident was reported at 5 p.m. at 5900 W Hollywood Bl. A three-story building (restaurant on 1st floor, self-storage business above) with one (locked) unit off gassing an odor detectable by a gas monitor (confirmed by SoCal Gas).

There was no fire and there are no injuries reported. Firefighters evacuated the building and the restaurant below (in an abundance of caution) and secured the building from unauthorized entry. LAFD Hazardous Materials specialists determined the exact source and mitigate any hazard. The 9-1-1 call was received at 4:17 p.m. The odor was detectable with gas monitor appearing to come from a storage unit.

By 5:40 p.m., officials reported the odor was identified as coming from a cleaning product and poses no hazard. Resources will recover equipment and be released. No further details have been disclosed about the incident.

By Trevor

BEL AIR—On Sunday, August 25, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that a four vehicle collision occurred in Bel Air.

The LAFD reported at 09:30 p.m. on the Southbound 405 freeway. There was a four-vehicle collision with a total of four patients. Adult female and adult male were transported by a paramedic ambulance and one adult female transported with non-life-threatening injuries.

A male child is being signed out on scene and will not be transported for additional treatment. No further details about the incident have been disclosed to the public, like a cause of the crash.

By Trevor

STUDIO CITY—On Sunday, August 18, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that at 7:31 p.m. they assisted in the rescue of a hiker at 8521 Mulholland Dr.

The LAFD Ground and Air Response rescued a fatigued but uninjured teen male hiker in steep terrain within 122 acres of Fryman Canyon Park.

An LAFD Rescue Helicopter has lowered a Flight Paramedic to assess the patient, was hoisted along with the LAFD Flight Paramedic into the hovering helicopter for transfer to a safe landing location at a nearby fire station. There were no reports of any injuries. No additional details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

BRENTWOOD—On Friday, August 16, the Los Angels Fire Department reported they were battling a two-story structure fire in Brentwood.

The blaze was reported at 12:04 p.m. at 2501 N Banyan Dr. The property was under construction with fire showing. The LAFD reported that by 2:23 p.m. the fire was contained.

The first arriving 26 firefighters extinguished the fire in 19 minutes with no injuries reported. The interior of the home was still exposed framing, but the firefighter’s quick actions stopped the fire from extending to other parts of the property.

By Trevor

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

PACIFIC PALISADES—On Sunday, August 4, the Los Angeles Fire Department indicated they responded to a scene to assist a hiker who needed rescuing in Pacific Palisades.

The LAFD reported the incident at 10:46 a.m. at 20825 Entrada Rd. The LAFD Air Operations located the uninjured, lost male hiker and is conducting a ‘capture’ operation. Due to the precarious location of the hiker, it is safer to conduct a capture (the rescuer is lowered and safely attaches the hiker) versus a standard hoist operation.

Air Ops will then transport the patient to a helispot to meet ground-based firefighters so they can assist the hiker in returning to his transport. A 911 call was received at 10:17 a.m. No further details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

STUDIO CITY—On July 27, a man died after jumping off of a subway train as police officers were chasing him on foot for evading payment.

On Saturday, July 27, at approximately 2:45 p.m., Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers assigned to the Transit Services Division were in the process of checking the premises when they noticed a man jumping on a train without paying.

LAPD officers pursued the suspect, noticing the suspect’s erratic behavior right away. Officer reports indicated they thought that the man may be living with mental illness. Officers engaged use of force indicating that they feared he may attempt to jump. The suspect scrambled away. He jumped off the train running southbound toward the Metro B-Line tunnel in the direction of Universal City/Studio City.

Officers searched the tunnels and rode the train searching for the man. They found his body lying on the tracks. First responders with the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) pronounced the subject dead at the scene. The full press release is below.

This incident is currently under investigation by the LAPD Force Investigation Division (FID). No other details have been released at this time.

By Sharon

WEST HOLLYWOOD—On July 30, the Los Angeles Police Department Force Investigations Division announced that an Officer Involved Shooting (OIS) occurred with the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team in the West Los Angeles Division.

On July 29, the Los Angeles Police Department (LASD) and the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) responded to a call of a burglary in process in the 2600 block of South Halm Avenue.

According to the LAPD, officers responded first to a caller whose home was broken into. The suspect, later identified as Lavell Adams, broke into the caller’s home.  The caller was an elderly female, and a window was broken while the suspect was entering the home prompting the victim to flee. Her home was later set on fire.

When LAFD officers responded to the fire, they observed LAPD officers attempting to take the suspect into custody. The suspect was armed with a knife. Police initially shot off rounds from a bean bag gun.

The suspect who was still armed with a butcher knife then barricaded himself in the home. Members of the S.W.A.T. team entered the area at this time. One officer had a taser on the ready when the suspect lunged toward them with a knife. Shots were simultaneously fired along with the taser, and the suspect dropped to the floor, and the knife fell out of his hand.

LAPD officers declared Adams dead at the scene. The full text of the press release may be found here.

According to the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD) Inmate locator, the suspect has a criminal history. He was arrested for a felony on July 21, 2022, and was released on bond on October 18, 2023.

On March 1, 2023, Adams was arrested for a felony. He was initially to be detained until assigned to permanent housing on April 17, 2023.  He was placed on probation at his sentencing court date on March 29, 2023.

The suspect was listed under two separate names including Lavell Diontay Adams and
Lavell Diontay Adams.

By Sharon

BEL AIR—On Tuesday, July 30, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported at 1:55 p.m. they were battling a brush fire at 1:55 p.m. on the southbound 405 freeway.

The initial report of approximately 1/8 acre burning on the west side of the freeway at a moderate rate of speed under light wind conditions. There were no structures threatened during the incident. The LAFD reported at 2:37 p.m. over 60 firefighters conducted a coordinated ground and aerial attack and extinguished the fire in 42 minutes with no injuries reported.

Crews will continue to mop up any remaining hot spots and the duration of impact on the 405 Freeway is unknown at this time. Drivers are advised to check https://cad.chp.ca.gov/Traffic.aspx Incident # 1361 for updates. No further details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

STUDIO CITY—On Saturday, July 27, the Los Angeles Fire Department announced they are investigating a Red Line Pedestrian Fatality. It was reported at 3:37 p.m. at 3901 Lankershim Blvd. near Universal City. Firefighters located a patient in the tunnel between Universal and North Hollywood.

The victim has been identified as a 30-year-old man. No additional details about the victim have been disclosed. The victim was beyond medical help and determined dead at the scene. The incident is being handed over to law enforcement and the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.

It is unknown how long this will affect the line. The public can follow @metorlosangeles for updates. There are no additional details about the incident disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

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

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—The Los Angeles Fire Department reported on Thursday, July 25 that they battled a one-story single-family structure fire at 4:27 p.m. located at 1432 N. Detroit Street.

By 4:48 p.m., officials indicated the blaze was contained. Crews deployed hose lines and ascended ladders to ventilate the roof. The coordinated effort of 42 firefighters on scene resulted in the flames being extinguished in 21 minutes. There were no reported injuries during the incident. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

By Trevor

PACIFIC PALISADES—The LAFD reported on July 18 at 4:39 p.m. that the successfully extinguished a brush fire located at 1000 N Palisades Dr.

Firefighters arrived to find approximately one-eighth of an acre of medium brush with approximately 10 mph onshore winds. There were no structures threatened during the blaze. Crews quickly surrounded the fire with hose lines and extinguished the flames by ground attack.

There were no reported injuries during the incident. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Sunday, July 21, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported at 11:22 p.m. that they extinguished a fire located at 7230 W. Franklin Avenue.

The LAFD reported Firefighters discovered fire affecting four total units of a three-story apartment building. Crews coordinated interior fire attack with roof ventilation, and all flames were extinguished in 41 minutes by a total of 56 firefighters.

Two patients were treated for smoke inhalation. Crews remained on scene for overhaul. The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation. There were no reports of any other injuries.

By Trevor

PACIFIC PALISADES—On Sunday, July 14, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported at 9:32 a.m. near Temescal Fire Rd.

Paramedics have been lowered from LAFD helicopters to assess and treat a 53-year-old male patient in a remote location of Topanga State Park. No additional details about the incident has been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

GRIFFITH PARK—The Los Angeles Fire Department reported on Friday, July 12, at 2:12 a.m. they battled a structure fire at 4400 N. Crystal Springs Dr.

Overnight, LAFD crews responded to reports of a rubbish fire near Griffith Park & Southern Railroad. Firefighters on scene reported a covered storage and maintenance area fully involved upon their arrival, with 30-foot flame lengths extending into nearby trees.

It was difficult in the beginning for officials to access the region, but crews were able to force entry and extinguish the blaze in just over an hour.

The loss of the involved structure(s) and any storage therein appeared to be complete. There were no injuries reported. The cause of the fire is under active investigation. Those with media inquiries can contact Griffith Park Rangers, (323) 644-6661.

By Trevor

GRIFFITH PARK—On Sunday, July 14, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported at 2:28 a.m. at 5600 W. Zoo Drive. Firefighters were working to contain the ¼ acre of fire, running uphill in heavy brush in Griffith Park.

At 3:44 a.m., forward progress on the fire in Griffith Park was stopped at approximately 2 acres. Crews will continue to work on steep terrain to monitor hot spots and get all of the burned area appropriately bounded by fuel breaks, which involves clearing brush down to mineral soil.

The cause of this fire is under investigation, there were no injuries reported. No structures were impacted as a result of the blaze.

By Trevor

SHERMAN OAKS—On Saturday, July 6, the Los Angeles Fire Department battled a truck fire that was reported at 9:09 p.m. on the northbound 405 Freeway, South of Venture Boulevard. By 10 p.m., the LAFD indicated that the fire had been fully extinguished and was confined to the tractor (cab) only of the big rig, which included *tandem* (two) trailers containing 7,600 gallons of diesel motor fuel.

The trailers are intact, upright and were not involved in the fire and are not leaking product. A minimal leak of diesel motor fuel at the scene is attributed to partial leakage of the tractor’s *one* ‘saddle’ tank used to propel the truck. There were no reports of any injuries during the incident.

All lanes of the northbound and southbound 405 Freeway remain closed between Burbank Boulevard and Skirball Center Drive until the LAFD, and the California Highway Patrol operations are complete, and the site has been rendered safe for travel. Unknown ETO. Travelers, expect congestion and delay.

By Trevor

PACIFIC PALISADES—On Saturday, July 6, officials with the Los Angeles Fire Department helped rescue a hiker who was injured in the Santa Monica Mountains.

The incident was reported at 3:37 p.m. The LAFD ground and air response assisted a 66-year-old female hiker suffering from exhaustion on the Bienveneda Trail north of Leacock Trail near Topanga State Park.

An LAFD Rescue Helicopter lowered a Flight Paramedic to help medically assess and stabilize the patient, whose condition was undetermined.

The patient and LAFD Flight Paramedic was hoisted into the hovering helicopter for continuing in-flight care during direct air transport to an area hospital.

By Trevor

WESTWOOD—On Friday, July 5, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported hazardous materials being released in Westwood.

The LAFD indicated the incident transpired at 7:10 p.m. at 215 VA, where firefighters responded to reports of smoke coming from the sidewalk and from a vault.

Crews set up a perimeter, asked nearby building occupants to close doors/windows and shelter in place, and deployed monitoring equipment.

Hazardous Materials Specialists determined that the smoke/white vapor cloud coming from underground was a large amount of steam from an underground construction operation and that there was no hazard present and determined the site is safe. There were no reports of any injuries during the incident.

By Trevor

WEST HOLLYWOOD—WEHO residents are complaining over repeated fires believed to be started by squatters in a vacant home. The most recent fire was on June 28, when LAFD firefighters were called to fight the blaze located at 4909 Fountain Avenue near the intersection of Fairfax and Fountain.

Neighbors have publicly complained to KTLA reporters first at the scene indicating that this was the third fire in two years. Residents fear their homes may too catch fire. Though there is a security guard on site, squatters are still managing to break in.

Reports indicate that the homeowner wanted to have the house demolished, but at the time the city would not permit it.

LAFD firefighters have now red-tagged the home, deeming it unsafe for occupancy.

By Sharon

GRIFFITH PARK—On Tuesday, July 2, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported they battled a brush fire at 9:43 p.m. The fire was located at 2800 W. Observatory Road.

Initial companies report a 15 foot x 15 foot area of brush burning near Griffith Observatory. By 10:16 p.m., officials contained the fire burning near the Griffith Observatory by LAFD air and ground crews.

They were assisted by Griffith Park rangers, without any significant spread beyond the initial 15 foot x 15 foot area. No structures were threatened and there were no injuries reported during the incident. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The Griffith Observatory is owned and operated as a public service by the City of Los Angeles, Department of Recreation and Parks. In 2020, the Griffith Observatory celebrated its 85th anniversary. The inspiration of the establishment came from Griffith J. Griffith.

By Trevor

STUDIO CITY—On Wednesday, July 3, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that it had to rescue a woman from a slope.

The incident was reported at 1:58 a.m. at 8469 Mulholland Dr. The LAFD performed a ground-based rescue of a 23-year-old female from a low-angle slope.

A LAFD helicopter was in the air to assist with illuminating the region. No vehicular involvement was needed and there was no major injuries reported.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Sunday, June 30, the Los Angeles Fire Department battled a structure fire in Hollywood Hills West. The fire was reported at 6:59 a.m. at 8100 W. Sunset Blvd.

First-arriving companies reported a one-story single-family dwelling with fire showing from the front. Firefighters proceeded in offensive mode, breaching entrances to fight fire and search for victims. They ascended to the roof to ventilate the pressurized smoke and heat.

Full extinguishment of the blaze was completed in 35 minutes. There was a total of 37 firefighters on-scene. There were no reports of any injuries. The official cause of the fire is unknown and under investigation.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Tuesday, June 25, the Los Angeles Fire Department battled a two-story vacant fire at 6920 Sunset Blvd. The fire was reported at 6:33 a.m.

Men and women of the LAFD responded to the 2-story vacant structure, they found heavy fire showing, from this site of a previous burn. Firefighters are utilizing heavy streams to protect exposures.

It took 45 firefighters, 29 minutes to knockdown flames in the vacant building. One 35-year-old female patient was transported to a local hospital with burn injuries. LAFD heavy equipment operators, along with Building and Safety, will be on-scene to evaluate the building (the site of multiple previous burns) for demolition due to safety concerns.

Sunset Boulevard was closed between Highland Avenue and Orange Drive. PIO Adam Vangerpen was on-scene for media staging at Sunset and Highland to address the blaze. There were no reports of any additional injuries.

By Trevor

PACIFIC PALISADES—On Saturday, June 22, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that at 11:41 a.m. a hiker had to be rescued at Temescal Ridge Trail near Pacific Palisades.

The LAFD Ground and Air Response to an ill 55-year-old male hiker dehydrated and unable to walk in hot weather near the conclusion of his journey on a remote section of the Temescal Ridge Trail.

An LAFD Rescue Helicopter lowered a Flight Paramedic to medically assess and stabilize the patient, who has been hoisted along with the LAFD Flight Paramedic into the hovering helicopter for continuing in-flight care during direct air transport to an area hospital. No additional details about the incident have been reported to the public.

By Trevor

STUDIO CITY—On June 19, at approximately 9:30 p.m. the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) firefighters were dispatched to 8591 Mulholland Drive to rescue a hiker in distress.  Video footage captured at the scene and posted at approximately 11:30 p.m. shows an LAFD first responder propelling down the hillside of a canyon with his rescue gear to help the distressed hiker.

When he got to the hiker who was down in the brush and could not get to his feet on his own. It took awhile for the paramedic to get the hiker up on his feet, straps on and in a position where he could make the trek up the hill.

The fireman eased the hiker up the hill, helping him with each step until they made it to the top, where at least a dozen other LAFD first responders were ready to assist.

When reaching the top, the hiker was able to slowly walk on his own. There were no reported injuries other than the soreness and perhaps his pride.

The Los Angeles Fire Department posted the following reminders of how to prepare for a hike.

“With springtime weather giving way to summer, we are seeing an increase in ill or injured hikers whose predicaments were preventable. Before you take out to hike LA, take a moment to review and share these hiker safety tips from your friends at the Los Angeles Fire Department.

Hike with a friend or family member

Take plenty of drinking water.

Let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return.

Don’t walk off-trail

Be aware of the wildlife that lives in all of our state parks.”

By Sharon

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—The Los Angeles Fire Department reported a two-story fourplex blaze at 3322 N. Barham Blvd. in Hollywood Hills on June 18.

Officials were first alerted about the fire at 5:33 p.m. where firefighters investigating the source of the smoke inside of the two-story fourplex found a small fire involving contents only (no structural involvement yet).

Crews quickly snuffed out the small fire and remained on scene to evacuate the smoke from the building using blowers. There were no reported injuries during the blaze. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

By Trevor

PACIFIC PALISADES—On Saturday, June 15, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported a hiker was rescued in Topanga State Park. Officials were alerted at 11:08 a.m. The LAFD ground and air team responded to a 72-year-old male hiker with head trauma after he fell on a remote section of the Backbone Trail near Rivas Canyon.

An LAFD Rescue Helicopter lowered a Flight Paramedic to medically assess and stabilize the patient, who will soon be hoisted along with the LAFD Flight Paramedic into the hovering helicopter for continuing in-flight care during direct air transport to an area hospital.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Sunday, June 9, the Los Angeles Fire Department battled a kitchen fire that erupted at 2:07 p.m. at 3662 N Barham Blvd. First arriving on the scene were 22 LAFD firefighters that took a total of 18 minutes to access, confine and fully extinguish a kitchen fire.

The fire was reported on the second-floor apartment at a large three-story center hallway apartment building. There were no reports of any injuries during the blaze. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Thursday, June 6, the Los Angeles Fire Department extinguished a fire at 1:48 a.m. at 1765 N Vista Del Mar Avenue.

A total of 32 firefighters took just 19 minutes to access, confine and fully extinguish flames within a small abandoned and vacant two-story apartment building.

The fire was well involved by the time the LAFD arrived on the scene. There were no reports of any injuries during the blaze. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

By Trevor

GRIFFITH PARK—The Los Angeles Fire Department rescued a hiker who was injured in Griffith Park on Wednesday, May 29. The incident was reported to the Fire Department at 11:50 a.m. at 4730 Crystal Springs Dr.

Park rangers on-scene in a remote area of Griffith Park about an injured male hiker, approximately 23 years old, with an ankle injury.

The LAFD’s helicopter crew lowered a paramedic down to the patient, while ground crews made access to the remote location with vehicles capable of navigating Griffith Park’s narrow trails.

Due to steep and difficult terrain, personnel with the LAFD decided to hoist the patient into a helicopter and transport him to a nearby hospital for further treatment. No additional details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—The Los Angeles Fire Department battled a two-story fire in Hollywood on Sunday, May 26. The fire was reported at 1:52 a.m. at 1816 N. Wilton Place.

Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire showing from a two-story vacant craftsman-style home. For a portion of the fire, firefighters retreated into the defensive mode and fought the fire from the exterior only. They transitioned again inside the structure to finish extinguishing the flames in hard-to-reach areas.

It took a total of 70 firefighters, 49 minutes to access, confine, and extinguish the flames. There were no reports of any injuries during the blaze. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

By Trevor

PACIFIC PALISADES—The Los Angeles Fire Department reported on Tuesday, May 21, that an auto rollover transpired at 5:49 p.m. at 17010 W. Sunset Blvd. Firefighters were on scene of a rollover crash involving a structure. No patients were trapped during the incident.

Crews found one overturned vehicle, which came to rest against a two-story apartment building. Firefighters provided medical assessment and ongoing care enroute to the hospital for three patients (two in serious condition and one person in moderate condition).

Three others were in good-to-fair condition and received an assessment and care on scene, but declined transportation to a hospital, the LAFD reported. There were no additional details on what caused the crash.

By Trevor

BRENTWOOD—The Los Angeles Fire Department reported on Friday, May 17 officers from the Los Angeles Police Department were involved in a crash that left several officers injured.

The LAFD was alerted of the incident at 5:25 a.m. on the northbound 405 freeway. Firefighters arrived to a traffic accident involving LAPD officers who were in pursuit of a vehicle. This resulted in a vehicle crashing into parked vehicles and hitting a police car. Four total officers were injured with one being taken to an area hospital.

The incident expanded to the freeway where the van did go the wrong way and the pursuit ended with crashing into three vehicles on the freeway. No extrication was needed. One patient was transported to an area hospital.

By Trevor

PACIFIC PALISADES—On Saturday, May 18, the Los Angeles Fire Department noted that a hiker was rescued in the Santa Monica Mountains. The LAFD reported at 12:01 p.m. the LAFD Ground and Air Response responded to a 28-year-old female hiker with an apparent ankle fracture, on a remote section of the Temescal Ridge Trail in Topanga State Park.

An LAFD Rescue Helicopter lowered a Flight Paramedic to medically assess and stabilize the patient, who be hoisted along with the LAFD Flight Paramedic into the hovering helicopter for continuing in-flight care during direct air transport to an area hospital. No additional details about the incident were reported to the public.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Sunday, May 19, the Los Angeles Fire Department battled a fire at an abandoned hotel at 1624 Schrader Blvd. The LAFD was alerted of the blaze at 3:15 a.m.

The fire was categorized as a Major Emergency at 4:15 a.m. A total of 126 LAFD firefighters were assigned to battle the blaze with heavy fire in the sub-floor/basement, both above ground floors and attic of a vacant and abandoned two-story hotel. There were no reports of any injuries.

It took 98 minutes to access, confine and fully extinguish heavy fire in the sub-floor/basement, both above ground floors and attic of a vacant and abandoned two-story hotel. The cause of the fire is under investigation. LAFD Public Information Officer – Firefighter David Ortiz arrived on the scene to address the media at 5:20 a.m.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Thursday, May 9, the Los Angeles Fire Department disclosed they rescued a hiker in Runyan Canyon. The LAFD were informed at 7:20 p.m. of a hiker who suffered injuries near 2469 N. Solar Drive.

The 35 year-old hiker sustained injuries secondary to a 15-foot fall in a remote area of Runyon Canyon. Crews on the ground and in the air coordinated to locate and assist the patient, who was able to walk down the trail.

He was able to meet an LAFD paramedic ambulance for treatment and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Thursday, May 9, the Los Angeles Fire Department announced that they battled a fire that ignited a tree in the Hollywood Hills region. The fire was reported at 7:53 p.m. at 6700 W. Hillpark Drive.

Crews on the ground declared a knockdown on the initial dumpster fire, as well as the palm trees on fire. Blue flames were initially observed in the dumpster that were later determined to be caused by an electrical wire and conduit. LAFD HazMat experts indicated there was no further threat to the surrounding region.

The Highland Avenue off-ramp from the southbound 101 was closed while companies coordinated ways to extinguish the blaze. There were no reports of any injuries during the incident.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Sunday, May 5, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a call of down wires in the Hollywood region. At 2:05 p.m., the LAFD responded to 1086 N. St. Andrews Place where scaffolding (approximately 4 – 5 stories tall) was swept outward from the building by wind and was resting on wires on the north side of Santa Monica Boulevard.

The LAFD Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) specialists are on scene assessing the situation. Firefighters were keeping pedestrians and motorists out of the area due to the unstable scaffolding, which was not occupied. Motorists were advised to avoid the region as officials dealt with the downed wires. Santa Monica Boulevard would be closed between Wilton and Western Avenues. There were no reports of any injuries.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On Monday, April 29, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported multiple people were injured during a traffic collision. The incident was reported at 3:50 p.m. at 6078 W Santa Monica Blvd.

Firefighters arrived on scene to three-vehicle collisions that resulted in seven patients being injured. One of those victims was transported to a local hospital in critical condition. The other six sustained only minor injuries.

Additional details about the cause of the collision and the condition of the victims have not been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

GRIFFITH PARK—On Sunday, April 28, the Los Angeles Fire Department announced they rescued a hiker in Griffith Park. Officials were alerted of the hiker needing help at 10:26 a.m. near Hogback Trail.

The LAFD Ground and Air Response with L.A. Park Rangers responded to an adult female hiker with an injured ankle on a remote section of Hogback Trail west of Vista del Valle Drive in Griffith Park.

An LAFD Rescue Helicopter lowered a Flight Paramedic to medically assess and stabilize the patient, who was hoisted along with the LAFD Flight Paramedic into the hovering helicopter for continuing in-flight care. The victim was taken to an area hospital for further evaluation via direct air transport. No additional details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

WESTWOOD—On Tuesday, April 23, the Los Angeles Fire Department battled a storage fire that transpired in Westwood. The blaze was reported at 10:12 a.m. at 1391 S. Westwood Blvd.

It took 60 firefighters about 29 minutes to access, confine and fully extinguish flames in a storage shed to the rear of a one-story row of commercial businesses. This prevented the fire from spreading to the common attic shared by an adjacent one-story restaurant and gallery.

There were no reports of any injuries during the incident. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

By Trevor

PACIFIC PALISADES—The Los Angeles Fire Department battled a fire inside a parking structure in Pacific Palisades on Sunday, April 21.

The incident was reported at 7:45 a.m. at 17310 W Vereda De La Montura; First arriving companies report a convalescent home (3 residential stories over a parking structure) with light smoke showing due to one automobile on fire in parking structure. The vehicle ablaze was beneath an assisted living facility and was put out within 34 minutes.

One female patient sustained an injury after a fall, while evacuating the building. She was transported by paramedics with the LAFD to a local hospital for treatment. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

By Trevor

BEL AIR—On Monday, April 15, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported an industrial accident transpired at 1 p.m. on 970 N. Moraga Drive. Officials arrived on scene to find one adult male trapped under a forklift.

There was a quick response from LAFD Crews including individuals specially trained, certified and equipped for Urban Search & Rescue operations. An adult male worker who was trapped beneath a toppled forklift that had been carrying steel rebar at a construction site, proved beyond medical help and he died at the scene.

LAFD personnel secured and stabilized the scene, as they prepared to assist the Medical Examiner with the discreet and dignified recovery of the victim’s remains. Details regarding the age and name of the victim has not been disclosed to the public. No other injuries were reported during the incident.

By Trevor

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

SHERMAN OAKS—A two-story house fire was reported by the Los Angeles Fire Department on Friday, April 12. The fire was reported at 3:49 p.m. at 3935 N. Witzel Drive. The fire was reported in the attic and concealed wall space adjacent to fireplace/chimney.

The first arriving 30 LAFD firefighters took just 28 minutes to access, confine and fully extinguish fire in the attic of a 3,397 square foot two story home. The blaze was extinguished at 4:17 p.m.

There were no reports of any injuries. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—The Los Angeles Fire Department announced a hiker was rescued on Sunday, April 14. The LAFD reported the incident transpired at 10:56 a.m. at Nichols Canyon.

The LAFD Ground and Air Response assisted an adult male hiker with an apparent ankle fracture, on the Lower Trebek Trail east of Nichols Canyon Road in the Santa Monica Mountains.

The patient was hoisted aboard a hovering LAFD rescue helicopter in fair condition and will receive continuing in-flight care from LAFD Flight Paramedics during direct helicopter transport to a regional trauma center for treatment. No other details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

BRENTWOOD/TOPANGA CANYON—A hiker was rescued at Topanga State Park on Sunday, April 14, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported.

The incident was reported at 1:49 p.m. LAFD Ground and Air Response to an adult male hiker with an apparent left knee facture, in remote terrain between Sullivan Fire Road and Rustic Creek in Topanga State Park.

An LAFD Rescue Helicopter was able to locate the hiker and lowered a flight paramedic to medically evaluate and stabilize the 58-year-old man. He was hoisted aboard the hovering helicopter for in-flight care during direct transport to an area hospital to be treated for injuries sustained.

By Trevor

GRIFFITH PARK—On Sunday, April 7, the Los Angeles Fire Department disclosed they rescued an individual in Griffith Park after an accident. The incident was reported at 5:47 a.m. on the northbound 5 freeway.

A solo vehicle with two persons trapped in the vehicle, one of whom (undetermined age/gender) was deceased. The other patient (undetermined age/gender) was disentangled from the wreckage by firefighters and has been taken to a regional trauma center in critical condition. No other injuries were reported. The name of the deceased has not been disclosed to the public.

The vehicle was found by the California Highway Patrol on the right shoulder with heavy damage. There were no reports of any fire. Possible closure of one or more lanes of northbound 5 freeway near the 134 interchange until CHP and Medical Examiner operations are complete.

Motorists were expected to deal with congestion and delay in the region, as authorities completed their investigation.

By Trevor

LOS FELIZ/GRIFFITH PARK—On Monday, April 1, the Los Angeles Fire Department indicated that they rescued a hiker north of Mount Hollywood Tunnel in Griffith Park. The incident was reported at 2:48 p.m.

LAFD Ground and Air responded to a 24-year-old female hiker in fair condition with a fractured ankle. The hiker was hoisted aboard a hovering LAFD helicopter.

They were transported to receive in-flight care during direct transport to regional trauma center for injuries sustained. No additional details about the incident were disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

STUDIO CITY—On Sunday, March 24, the Los Angeles Fire Department announced a river rescue transpired at 5:03 p.m. on the Los Angeles River East of Laurel Canyon Boulevard.

LAFD ground and air response, following a sudden rainstorm, had to assist an adult female first discovered in the concrete-lined Los Angeles River flood control channel near Whitsett Avenue. The victim was “less than knee depth” in water that was moving at approximately 15 miles-per-hour, the LAFD indicated.

After being thrown a flotation device and briefly holding onto the lower portion of a 24-foot wooden ladder lowered by the first arriving LAFD crew along the vertical concrete wall of the Los Angeles River, the 35-year-old woman was again swept a short distance downstream by the 15 mile-per-hour flow of storm water, before being rescued by an LAFD Rescue Helicopter crew using a hoist cable and harness.

She and her LAFD rescuer were safely hoisted aboard the aircraft where she received continuous in-flight care for minor injuries, including hypothermia, during direct helicopter transport to an area hospital. The woman has confirmed there were no other persons or animals with her or known by her to be in peril. No additional details about the incident were provided by the LAFD, who gave another update at 5:42 p.m.

By Trevor

STUDIO CITY—The Los Angeles Police Department disclosed that the Los Angeles Fire Department battle a blaze at the famed Baked Potato Jazz Club on Tuesday, March 19.

It was posted on Facebook that the blaze erupted at 3787 Cahuenga Blvd. near the rear portion of the businesses audio/visual equipment room. The fire was reported at 5:28 a.m., with firefighters responding to the one-story commercial building with smoke emerging from the rear.

Crews quickly deployed hose lines to the rear and extinguished the flames, keeping them from extending inside the main portion of the business. It took 34 firefighters 17 minutes to extinguish the flames. There were no reports of any injuries during the fire.  The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

“As firefighters, we take our task to protect property seriously, whether fighting fire in a shed or a mansion. But sometimes there’s a little extra pride and joy that comes with saving a building as iconic as the Baked Potato, founded 54 years ago. We hope the community continues to enjoy this local Studio City venue for years to come, and we are happy to now be a part of the history of this famous Jazz Club,” the LAFD noted on Facbeook.

The jazz club is located at 3787 Cahuenga Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604. All ages are welcome and the establishment is open for business nightly from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. The kitchen is open till 11:30 p.m.

“The Baked Potato Jazz Club has been the home venue for some of the greatest musicians since 1970. The world famous Baked Potato Jazz club offers stellar music nightly and great food. We invite you to buy tickets to one of our upcoming events and experience the LA Jazz Music Scene for yourself, and see some of the greatest musicians since 1970. The world famous Baked Potato Jazz club offers stellar music nightly and great food. We invite you to buy tickets to one of our upcoming events and experience the LA Jazz Music Scene for yourself,” the Baked Potato Jazz Club website states.

By Trevor

SHERMAN OAKS—On Tuesday, March 19, the Los Angeles Fire Department indicated they battled a knockdown structure fire that was reported at 9:47 p.m.

The home was located at 15314 Dickens St. where firefighters responded to an automotive shop (collision repair & paint shop) to find heavy smoke coming from inside the building.

Crews got access to the inside of the building and found multiple vehicles burning inside. It took the first 28 firefighters just 18 minutes to access, confine, and extinguish the flames. There were no reported injuries during the blaze. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by officials.

By Trevor

STUDIO CITY—The Los Angeles Fire Department announced on Tuesday, March 19 that they extinguished a fire that occurred at a commercial building. The fire was reported at 5:28 a.m. at 3787 N Cahuenga Blvd.

Firefighters responded to a 25’ x 100’ one-story commercial building with smoke emerging from the rear. Firefighters found a detached A/V room with fire inside behind the main building, with flames threatening the commercial structure.

Crews quickly deployed hose lines to the rear and extinguished the flames, keeping them from extending inside the main portion of the business. It took 34 firefighters 17 minutes to extinguish the flames. There were no reports of any injuries during the fire.  The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

By Trevor

STUDIO CITY—The home of model and actress Cara Delevinge, 31, was destroyed by a fire on Friday, March 15. The Los Angeles Fire Department noted they responded to the blaze at 6:13 a.m. at 3265 N. Oakdell Lane in Studio City.

Firefighters arrived to find a 6,650 square foot two-story home built in 1971, with heavy fire in the rear, which consumed one room in the rear and developed into a deep-seated attic fire. Crews confirmed all occupants were out of the home, and then pulled back into defensive mode due to the long duration of heavy fire exposing the structure. The house subsequently sustained a roof collapse, as firefighters continued to apply hose streams from the exterior.

It took 94 firefighters two hours and 16 minutes to access, confine, and extinguish the flames. One firefighter was transported in fair condition, and one occupant sustained minor smoke inhalation. The cause of the fire is still under investigation by officials.

It was reported earlier that both of Delevinge’s cats died as a result of the fire, but the model later clarified via social media that those reports were inaccurate.

Delevingne was not home at the time of the fire. She posted the following message on her Instagram page:

“My heart is broken today. I cannot believe it. Life can change in a blink of an eye. So, cherish what you have.” She also posted on her page. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all the firefighters and people that have showed up to help…”

The actress has appeared in the films “Paper Towns,” “Suicide Squad,” “Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets” and “Tell it Like a Woman.” She has walked in fashion shows for Tory Burch, Oscar de la Renta, Carolina Herrera, Dolce and Cabana and Louis Vuitton.

By Trevor

SHERMAN OAKS—The Los Angeles Police Department announced on Wednesday, March 13 that severe damage was inflicted on one home and threatened several others, but no one was injured.

Firefighters received a report of a large tree down and wires down in the backyard of a residence at 2:51 a.m. on March 13 on the 3700 block of North Ventura Canyon Avenue. Crews arrived to find a large portion of a hillside that slid down toward at least three homes, and heavily damaging one home under construction.

Several individuals were evacuated from at least one of the homes. Firefighters conducted a primary search of the homes, which revealed no patients. Firefighters are using pumps to remove water from a swimming pool in the area to take some additional weight and stress off of the hillside.

The Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety responded to assess the structures and hillsides, and red-tagged at least one building. LAFD Drone Operators will be flying drones at daybreak, using cameras and infrared technology to gain additional situational awareness for LAFD and Building and Safety crews at the scene.

“We want to use this as a good reminder that having an emergency plan is necessary year-round. These events are not isolated to “fire season” or Santa Ana wind events or “atmospheric river” rain events. Make an emergency plan for your home and your family so that you are ready if “it” happens to you (whatever “it” may be),” the LAFD indicated in a statement.

The LAFD noted that as 4 p.m. on March 13, two properties were red-tagged, and one home was yellow-tagged.

By Trevor

SHERMAN OAKS—Three homes suffered damage because of a landslide in Sherman Oaks on Wednesday, March 13. The Los Angeles Fire Department reported that the homes damaged were located near N. Ventura Canyon Avenue. The incident was reported at 2:51 a.m.

Firefighters responded to reports of a large tree down and wires down in the backyard of a residence. Responders arrived to find a large portion of a hillside had slid down toward at least three homes. Several people were evacuated from at least one of the homes. A primary search of the homes revealed no patients, but a more thorough (secondary) search will be conducted after daybreak.

The Department of Building and Safety is responding to assess the structures and hillsides. PIO Captain Cody Weireter was on the scene to assess and discuss what transpired. There were no reports of any injuries during the incident.

By Trevor

PACIFIC PALISADES—On Sunday, March 3, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported that they battled a two-story fire at a home at 2:02 p.m. at 17606 W Camino De Yatasto.

A total of 31 firefighters took 34 minutes to access, confine and fully extinguish a fire involving a vehicle and contents within the garage of a 5,288 square foot property. There were no reports of any injury. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by officials.

By Trevor

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA—On February 1, the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD), the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), and the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) announced their annual Battle of the Badges Blood Drive to benefit the American Red Cross, and those they service throughout the coverage area including, but not limited to, Westwood, Brentwood, Studio City, and Sherman Oaks.

On the LAFD website it is noted that this annual drive has been a great support for the Red Cross since 2007. Blood donors have contributed over 50,000 units of blood since the inception of the drive. Last year 2,500 units of blood were donated. This year’s goal is 3,000 units.

The police department, fire department, and Sheriff’s department are competing to see who can bring in the most donations.

The drive lasts from January 10 through the end of March 2024. Participants receive a free commemorative t-shirt, while supplies last.

Eligible donors are required to make an appointment through the Red Cross donor app that may be found on the Red Cross website or by calling the Red Cross 1-800 REDCROSS and using the sponsor code BOB24.

The remaining LAFD community blood drives are as follows:

Saturday, February 10 from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. at Fire Station 89 located at 7063 Laurel Canyon Boulevard in North Hollywood.

Thursday, February 15 from 12:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Fire Station 59 located at 11505 Olympic Boulevard in West Los Angeles.

Saturday, February 17 from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Fire Station 87 located at 10124 Balboa Boulevard in Granada Hills.

Monday, March 18 from 1:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Fire Station 5 located at 8900 South Emerson Avenue in Westchester

Saturday, March 23 from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Fire Station 87 at 10124 Balboa in Granada Hills.

More donor opportunities are listed on the American Red Cross Website.

February 6 from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m., Riverside Police Department, 10540 Magnolia Ave.

February 13 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., City of Buena Park, 6650 Beach Blvd.

February 13 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., Rialto Police Department, 214 N Palm Ave.

February 14, from 9:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. located at City of Seal Beach, 707 Electric Avenue.

February 20 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., Chino Police Department, 5450 Walnut Ave.

February 27 from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m., Montclair Police Department, 5111 Benito St.

February 28 from 7 a.m. until 1 p.m., Los Angeles County Internal Svc Downey, 9150 Imperial Hwy.

February 28 from 10 am. until 4 p.m. Glendora Police Department, 140 South Glendora Ave.

February 28 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., George E. Brown Jr. Fed Bldg. Riverside, 3470 Twelfth St.

March 7 from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m., Upland Police Department, 1499 W 13th St.

March 28 from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m., Bell Gardens Police Department, 6662 Loveland St.

More locations and information may be available on the LAFD, LAPD, and LASD prospective websites.

By Sharon

WEST HOLLYWOOD—On Saturday, January 27, the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Air Operations airlifted two separate hikers to safety. LAFD reported the basic information about the rescues on the LAFD X social media page.

According to LAFD the first rescue occurred at 10:29 a.m. in the area of 3693 N. Wonder View Dr. Responding firefighters located a 44-year-old male hiker who had experienced a ground level fall.

LAFD Air Operations hoisted the man into the helicopter and transported him to an area hospital for treatment.

On Saturday, January 27, at 12:40 p.m. LAFD Air Operations responded to a call of a 40 year-old male hiker in medical distress. LAFD firefighters located the man on Runyon Canyon Rd. in Hollywood Hills West.

LAFD Air Operations from Battalion 5, West Bureau hoisted the patient onto the helicopter and transported him to an area hospital for treatment.

No further information on the condition of either of the patients is available at this time.

By Sharon

SHERMAN OAKS—January 17, 2024, marked 30 years since the 6.7 magnitude earthquake that occurred in Northridge that left 57 people dead and caused major damage to buildings, businesses and freeways in the San Fernando Valley region.

The Los Angeles Fire Department posted on its Facebook Page that firefighters and media gathered at Fire Station 88 in Sherman Oaks on January 17, 2024 to remember the Northridge Earthquake, demonstrate the new tools and techniques the LAFD are using 30 years after (at “Disaster City” Urban Search and Rescue training area behind the fire station), and update residents to increase their preparedness before the next “Big One.”

At 4:31 a.m., on January 17, 1994, Los Angeles suffered a 6.7 Magnitude earthquake, centered in Northridge. The quake caused significant damage and losses were seen throughout Southern California, with fallen bridges, fires, flooding, buildings collapsed, and highways and more.

“First Responders worked to dig the city out of the rubble, but it wasn’t just us…. Residents, neighbors, and businesses all came together to show the resilience of Los Angeles,” said the LAFD.

The Fire Department is aiming to ensure Los Angelenos are prepared for the next big earthquake when it happens. Individuals are being asked to be proactive as it unknown when the next big earthquake may strike.

People are expected to know the risks and create a plan for their family or household which includes an emergency kit and to learn how to stay informed during an emergency situation.

“Your #LAFD also has programs and resources to help, and offers free classes to join our Community Emergency Response Team (#CERT) to help our communities prepare for and respond to the next crisis. Visit LAFD.org for more information,” the LAFD stated in the post.

By Trevor

HOLLYWOOD HILLS—On January 17, firefighters with the Los Angeles Fire Department rescued two men from a burning building, before extinguishing the flames consuming a one-story Hollywood home.

Firefighters responded to reports of smoke in the area, and arrived to find a one-story single-family home with fire showing at 3 a.m. on the 1300 block of North Cherokee Avenue.

The LAFD reported on its website that while initiating an offensive fire attack, the first engine company found two people trapped behind a double-keyed security gate inside the structure. Firefighters used forcible entry tools to access the area, and rescued two adult males that were transported to a local hospital (one in critical condition, one in grave condition). The status of the victims’ injuries is not known.

During the rescue, the fire continued to expand. The engine company resumed fire attack operations after rescuing the two patients, but the fire had grown rapidly. The crew was inside the structure when a flashover occurred. Only one member was found to have burns on their ears, but all four members of the crew were transported for observation at the hospital. All four firefighters were released later in the morning.

It took 48 firefighters 31 minutes to access, confine, and extinguish the flames. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On January 2, city officials in southern California reminded residents how to recycle their Christmas Trees. 

The Los Angeles County Public Works published the following information about the proper disposal of Christmas Trees on their website:

“Most of the Cities in Los Angeles County have requested residents to remove ornaments/decorations, tinsel, plastic containers, metal/plastic/wood stands, nails, and lights. If none shown, please contact your city for options. See below for special instructions. Unless otherwise noted. The Christmas trees can then be placed at curbside next to the recycling and waste containers on scheduled trash collection day(s) during the time-period noted. Please see special instructions for further details and possible exceptions to these rules in your city.”

The city of Bevely Hills collection dates are from December 26, 2023, through January 11, 2024.

The city of Santa Monica indicated on their website they are collecting trees from December 26, 2023, through January 31, 2024. The Resource Recovery and Recycling Administrator, Yvonne Yeung, who authored the post regarding the recycling of the trees advises that there is no need to call 311 for pick-up, and requests patience from the public as they are working diligently in getting the trees off the curbs in a timely manner.

“Place trees by the curb by 6 a.m. on service day. Trees over 6ft must be cut in half. No stands, ornaments or flocked trees accepted,” the city of Santa Monica stated. Residents may call 310-458-2223 or email recycling@santamonica.gov to schedule pick-ups through the end of January.

The city of West Hollywood has pick-up dates from December 26, 2023, through January 6, 2024.

The city of Malibu is allowing Christmas Tree pick-ups from December 26, 2023 – January 16, 2024. and stated:

“Place the tree by the curb by 6 a.m. on service day. Trees over 6ft must be cut in half. Plastic trees/foliage will not be accepted, call to schedule a bulky item pick-up.”

Residents from some parts of the coverage area can take their Christmas trees to the local fire station for recycling.

In Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles Fire Department, Fire Station #88 is currently taking trees at 5101 N. Sepulveda Boulevard.

By Sharon

PACIFIC PALISADES—On Sunday, July 9, at approximately 1:19 p.m., the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a call of an injured hiker. 

“Pacific Palisades: LAFD Air Ops located the 64yo male hiker with a non-life-threatening injury and due to the location (approx. 2-mile hike by ground firefighters) will conduct a hoist operation to retrieve the patient and transport to the hospital,” the LAFD stated on its website in a press release.

According to reports, the location of the trail the hiker was trekking was due north of Will Rogers State Park.  The hiker’s name has not been released to the public.

By Sharon

TOPANGA—On Wednesday, March 8, at approximately 11:05 a.m., the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Special Enforcement Bureau (SEB) responded to a call of a male suspect who barricaded himself inside a residence in the 21200 block of Colina Drive.

Lieutenant Santiago Cabrera posted on Twitter informing the public of the incident and responded to the request to assist the Malibu-Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station with the suspect.

SEB personnel were to assume tactical command while the Crisis Negotiations Team (CNT) attempted to make contact with the suspect and, “bring this to a peaceful resolution,” the LASD stated.

Reports indicate that the standoff lasted over two hours, as the suspect indicated he had explosives inside the home. There was no evidence of the presence of explosives in or around the property.

The suspect was initially dressed in his bathrobe and shouted out the window to negotiators. He later dressed down to his boxer shorts and stepped out onto a window on a rooftop bringing his blanket and various items with him. The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the scene.

A police officer climbed a ladder to the rooftop to speak to the suspect who went back into the home where he was apprehended without further incident. It was approximately 1:30 p.m. when officers took the suspect into custody.

Canyon News reached out to LASD Malibu/Lost Hills Division for details on the case, but did not hear back before print. 

By Sharon

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

GRIFFITH PARK—On Sunday, January 8, a 20-year-old man fell around 2898 East Observatory Road in Griffith Park and suffered traumatic injuries. It is unknown what led up to the accident. 

A 9-1-1 call was received around 3:03 p.m. prompting firefighters to be dispatched to the region.

Fire personnel assessed the scene and determined that an air hoist operation was needed due to the terrain and the injuries. The victim was transported to a hospital to be treated. His condition is unknown.

By Christianne

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

SANTA MONICA—A mountain biker was injured while riding in the Santa Monica Mountains on Saturday, December 11. He was rescued by Los Angeles Fire Department officials near the Pacific Palisades and Encino region. 

The report was made before 11:30 a.m. along Topanga State Park. The 23-year-old cyclist was found critically injured. He was wearing a helmet. He sustained injuries to his head, arm, and shoulder. Officials were present to medically assist him. 

Rescue helicopters were able to rescue the biker and he was airlifted to a regional trauma center. The name of the biker has not been released. His current condition has not been made public. 

By Christianne

GRIFFITH PARK—LAFD received a call regarding a 40 foot to 50 foot tree that fell in the parking lot of the Greek Theater, damaging 30 parked cars on Wednesday, November 3, at 8:08 p.m.

LA City Park Rangers conducted the first initial search and discovered a female age 35 had sustained an injury to the lower leg. The injured victim was transferred to an area hospital for treatment.

A second search was completed by firefighters, to ensure no one was trapped inside any of the vehicles.

No further details are available currently.

By Anita

BRENTWOOD—The Los Angeles Fire Rescue Team Air Ops Division responded to a 9-1-1 call regarding two uninjured hikers stranded on 1501 Umeo Road Saturday, September 4 at 7:32 p.m.

When the Air Rescue Unit arrived at the location, both hikers were incapable of moving through the terrain, due to limited visibility.

The rescue team used special equipment for a hoist operation then proceeded with a land transfer with the assistance of ground units to transport the hikers back to their car.

No further details are available currently.

By Anita

BRENTWOOD—A two-car accident occurred on the 405 freeway on Wednesday, September 1 at 2:32 p.m. involving a pool cleansing vehicle on the northbound on-ramp at The Skirball Cultural Center, near the Getty Center.

The pool cleaning vehicle lost roughly 30 gallons of chlorine powder and acid. To limit the amount of hazardous waste spreading throughout the air, an absorbent substance was distributed across the highway where the spill occurred. No production of hazardous gas fumes were detected, which can transpire during a chemical spill.

The LAFD HazMat Team was dispatched to the location to manage protocols concerning the chemical spill and assuring no hazards. There were no reports of any injuries during the incident.

The California Highway Patrol remained at the scene to direct issues involving traffic.

BRENTWOOD—On Saturday, July 31, at approximately 8:27 a.m., firefighters with the Los Angeles County Fire Department (LAFD) responded to the 2600 block of North Westridge Road in Brentwood for a mountain biker rescue.

“A 37-year-old male mountain biker sustained traumatic injuries in a remote area of Mandeville Canyon,” LAFD spokesman Nicholas Prange said in an official announcement.

LAFD Air Ops lowered a firefighter-paramedic rescuer to provide treatment and prepared the patient for a hoist operation. The LAFD air ambulance transported the patient to a local trauma center for further care.

The condition of the patient was not immediately known at the time of transport.

By Danielle

BRENTWOOD—On Tuesday, August 3, at approximately 1:27 p.m., firefighters with the Los Angeles County Fire Department (LAFD) responded to the 16200 block of West Mulholland Drive about a reported brush fire.

Upon arrival, firefighters found approximately one-quarter acre of heavy brush burning, with a light wind.

“Twenty-four LAFD firefighters held the fire burning in heavy brush to one-quarter acre in 25 minutes, protecting nearby schools, a church, and homes,” said LAFD Spokesman Nicholas Prange in an official announcement.

LAFD volunteer firefighters continued to improve containment lines around the perimeter of the extinguished fire’s footprint. Crews remained on the scene to make sure there were no hot spots remaining. There were no reported injuries or structure damage and the cause of the fire is still under investigation.

By Danielle