2023 LAFD Year In Review by United Firefighters of Los Angeles City

YEAR IN REVIEW 2023

UNITED FIREFIGHTERS OF LOS

ANGELES CITY

Mike Meadows

MISSION

Leading the way to protect and advocate for the health, safety, working conditions, wages, and benefits of our members and their families.

VISION

Engaging our members in the most reliable, effective, and committed labor organization in Los Angeles.

On behalf of the members of United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, IAFF Local 112 (UFLAC), I am honored to present the 11th Annual LAFD Year in Review. This publication tells the story of our Firefighters and Paramedics in images taken during 2023.

Last year, LAFD personnel responded to more than 509,000 emergency calls for service throughout the City of Los Angeles, including a massive fire that shut down the 10 Freeway, one of the busiest highways in the nation.

A Los Angeles Times investigation revealed that more than 54% of all fires requiring an LAFD response in the City of Los Angeles were associated with homelessness, yet our department continues to lack the personnel and resources necessary to tackle this ever-growing crisis unraveling before us on the streets of our city. Whether it’s structure fires, medical emergencies, technical rescues, or other life-threatening calls, our Firefighters and Paramedics handle each situation with the urgency that is required, risking their lives to protect all the residents of our city.

This book highlights the hard work and challenges faced each and every day by the dedicated men and women of our Department. I’m proud to be a part of the LAFD and I’m humbled to work side-by-side with the best Firefighters in the professional fire service.

United Firefighters of Los Angeles City International Association of Fire Fighters, Local 112

Ismael Miranda

OVERVIEW

The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) is an all-risk fire and rescue agency that serves over four million people in the second largest city in the nation. The LAFD is dedicated to saving lives, fighting fires, safety and prevention, and building communities.

The First Responders of the LAFD call 106 Fire Stations spread across their 469 square-mile jurisdiction home. These neighborhood fire stations are staffed by 3,430 sworn rank-and-file Firefighters on three rotating shifts who respond to an average of more than 1,350 emergency calls for service on a daily basis.

FIRE STATION LOCATIONS

Ismael Miranda

INCIDENT BREAKDOWN BY COUNCIL DISTRICT

Ismael Miranda

John Conkle

NUMBER OF TRANSPORTS TO EMERGENCY CARE

Eric Fox

INCIDENT BREAKDOWN

INCIDENT CLOCK

An emergency medical service call every 1 minute and 11 seconds

A structure fire every 2 hours and 37 minutes

A rescue every 44 minutes and 40 seconds

FIRE PREVENTION BUREAU INSPECTIONS

Gary Apodaca

EMERGENCY CALLS

STRUCTURE FIRE CIVILIAN FATALITIES

CITYWIDE RESPONSE TIMES

JANUARY 6

HIKER AIRLIFTED TO SAFETY

BELL CANYON - Crews responded to just outside of the city limits on the far west side of the San Fernando Valley at 11:41AM for a hiker rescue. Firefighters made their way by ground and met the patient while LAFD Air Ops personnel were lowered to the location near the Cave of Munits. The patient was treated, prepared for transport, and air lifted to an area hospital.

Leo Kaufman

JANUARY

9

HAZMAT RESPONSE

CHATSWORTH - At 10:40AM, the LAFD responded to a hazardous materials call in the 9400 block of Lurline Avenue. Firefighters arrived to find a 55-gallon drum in the gutter with an unknown substance off-gassing a visible white cloud. The HazMat squad secured the drum and handed the incident over to the LA County Department of Public Health.

Jacob Salzman

Jacob Salzman

JANUARY 9

LIFE-SAVING RESCUE FROM SINKHOLE

CHATSWORTH - At 7:20PM, the LAFD responded to a reported traffic collision in the 11400 block of Iverson Road. Firefighters arrived to find a large sinkhole with two vehicles (one on top of the other) approximately 15 feet below ground level. Crews located two people trapped in the bottom vehicle and although they tried stabilizing the car, it was shifting and starting to roll. Using an aerial ladder, a highangle rope rescue operation was initiated to lower a Firefighter and secure the victim. Crews executed this operation smoothly and safely, rescuing both patients.

JANUARY 26

AGGRESSIVE FIGHT SAVES BUSINESSES

WESTLAKE - At 5:15PM, the LAFD responded to a reported structure fire in the 2800 block of 7th Street. Heavy fire was consuming the second story of a mixed-use building constructed in the early 1920s. Firefighters entered the structure but were met with extreme heat and heavy fire, forcing them to retreat until the truck companies could perform vertical ventilation. As crews cut multiple holes in the roof to vent the flames and gases, conditions started to improve. 110 Firefighters worked diligently to achieve a knockdown in 53 minutes. Their efforts preserved portions of the businesses on the first floor and defended adjacent structures from any damage. The LAPD took one adult male into custody and, in conjunction with the LAFD Arson and Counter-Terrorism Section, investigated the cause of the fire. The suspect was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The Mayor’s Crisis Response Team and Red Cross also responded to assist 10 displaced people with immediate needs.

Mark Lassman LAFD

John Conkle

Mark Lassman

FEBRUARY 2

FIREFIGHTERS DOUSE AUTO FIRE

PACOIMA - At 12:07AM, Engine 98 quickly quenched a fire consuming an automobile at the intersection of Arroyo Avenue and Glenoaks Boulevard.

FEBRUARY 2

ONE TRAPPED, TWO INJURED IN CRASH

SUNLAND - Firefighters responded to the 8600 block of Foothill Boulevard at 9:51AM for a physical rescue after two cars crashed violently. Firefighters easily accessed one patient, but the second patient required technical extrication with hydraulic rescue tools. A 75-yearold female in serious condition and a 45-year-old male in critical condition were transported to nearby trauma centers.

Mike Meadows

Ismael Miranda Ismael Miranda

Mike Meadows

FEBRUARY 3

FIREFIGHTERS CONTAIN HOUSE FIRE

WINNETKA - Firefighters responded to the 20300 block of Sherman Way at 10:03AM to find a one-story home engulfed in flames, threatening neighboring structures. Crews rapidly deployed hose lines inside the burning building, while a company assigned to ventilation ascended ladders to the roof. Firefighters contained the damage to the original structure, sparing all neighboring homes. It took 38 Firefighters 21 minutes to extinguish the blaze.

FEBRUARY 4

CLIFF RESCUE OFF

MULHOLLAND

STUDIO CITY - At 4:59PM, the LAFD responded to the 8500 block of Mulholland Drive for a reported vehicle over the side of a cliff. Firefighters arrived to find a single passenger vehicle approximately 100 feet down a steep embankment. An adult female patient was seriously injured and due to the terrain, Air Ops conducted a hoist operation to rescue and transport the patient. LAFD Urban Search and Rescue with Heavy Rescue 3 retrieved the vehicle for law enforcement to conduct their investigation.

Henry Berkson Henry Berkson

Henry Berkson

Henry Berkson Henry Berkson

Shane Salzman

Shane Salzman

FEBRUARY

4

HIKER RESCUE

SHADOW HILLS - At 9:15AM, the LAFD responded to the 9200 block of Canter Lane for a reported injured hiker. Firefighters located an adult male patient with a non-life-threatening lower leg injury and due to the terrain, Air Ops conducted a hoist operation followed by air ambulance transport to the hospital.

FEBRUARY

4

FULLY INVOLVED BIG RIG TRACTOR

CHATSWORTH - At 11:04PM, the LAFD responded to a reported auto fire on the 118 Freeway at Rocky Peak Road. The Los Angeles County and Ventura County Fire Departments also responded and found the tractor of a big rig fully involved in fire and leaking diesel fuel. The fire was extinguished and the fuel was contained with no injuries reported.

Jake Klatt

Mark Lassman

Mark Lassman

Mark Lassman

FEBRUARY 16

LAFD BATTLES

GREATER ALARM

FIRE AT AUTOMOTIVE SUPPLY FIRM

VAN NUYS - A relentless 80-minute battle by 130 Firefighters prevented intense flames from extending beyond the walls of an automotive radiator supply firm located at 15225 Stagg Street.

Ismael Miranda

Greg Doyle

STRUCTURE FIRE LOSS IN $

FEBRUARY 19

F IRE HELD

WITHIN VACANT HOME

ARLETA - It took 30 Firefighters less than 17 minutes to access, confine, and fully extinguish heavy fire in the front portion of a vacant one-story home in the 10200 block of Bartee Avenue. The well-coordinated attack on the fire prevented it from extending to nearby homes.

FEBRUARY 24 LAFD CONFINES

FIRE TO VACANT BUSINESS

NORTH HOLLYWOOD - It took 34 Firefighters just 24 minutes in largely defensive operations to extinguish the stubborn flames of a noninjury fire within a vacant one-story commercial building located at 6669 Lankershim Boulevard.

Ismael Miranda

Ismael Miranda

Ismael Miranda

FEBRUARY 25

FIREFIGHTERS STOP FURNACE FIRE

GRANADA HILLS – At 1:17PM, the LAFD responded to a structure fire in the 17000 block of Los Alimos Street. 20 Firefighters accessed, confined, and fully extinguished stubborn flames that began near the floor furnace and quickly traveled to the attic of a one-story home within 22 minutes. Firefighters successfully protected neighboring homes and no injuries were reported.

Greg Doyle

Greg Doyle

SWIFT WATER TEAM RESCUES

MAN

FROM WASH

PACOIMA - The LAFD rapidly responded by ground and air to successfully rescue a man from fast moving water in the Pacoima Wash. A 23-year-old man fell into the tributary near Foothill Boulevard shortly after 10:00AM and was moving at nearly 10 mph until crews found the man hidden 2.5 miles downstream, clinging to an abutment. The successful rescue of the man was performed by the Swift Water Rescue Team using a tethered inflatable Rescue Boat. Once brought to safety, the victim was treated by Paramedics for hypothermia and hand abrasions, before being transported in fair condition to an area hospital.

Hrach Tiflizyan

Hrach Tiflizyan

Mike Meadows

LAFD QUICKLY QUENCHES

PARKED PICKUP BLAZE

PACOIMA - Light Force 98 made quick work of a non-injury vehicle fire involving a pickup truck in the 12500 block of Foothill Boulevard.

MARCH 20

FIVE HOSPITALIZED AFTER FIRE BURNS THROUGH APARTMENTS

PANORAMA CITY - Firefighters extinguished flames that burned through multiple units of a four-story apartment building, sending five to the hospital. The LAFD was alerted to a structure fire in the 9000 block of Tobias Street at 6:53AM. It took approximately 100 LAFD personnel 44 minutes to extinguish the flames, while also providing medical care. A total of 11 patients were treated on scene, and five of those were transported to local hospitals. Sadly, one canine was found dead at the scene. A total of 16 people from 10 damaged units were displaced and assisted by the Red Cross. Firefighters escorted residents back into their damaged units to retrieve important belongings and medications. Arson Investigators were on scene to determine the cause of the fire.

Greg Doyle

MARCH

23

LAFD RESCUES TWO FROM APARTMENT FIRE

SUN VALLEY - Firefighters rescued two seriously burned patients and medically evaluated five other civilians at the scene when flames erupted at a 210-unit four-story apartment building located at 7727 Lankershim Boulevard. A wellcoordinated attack confined the bulk of fire to the second-floor apartment and the flames were extinguished in 33 minutes.

John McCoy

Mike Meadows

John McCoy

John McCoy

John McCoy

Mike Meadows

MARCH 28

FATAL AUTO FIRE

WOODLAND HILLS - At 7:23AM, the LAFD responded to a reported brush fire in the 21000 block of Mulholland Drive. Crews arrived to find a fully involved auto fire exposing trees. After quickly extinguishing the flames and searching the vehicle, Firefighters found a deceased person. Arson Investigators and the LAPD responded to conduct an investigation.

Henry Berkson

Henry Berkson

APRIL 8 HOIST OPERATION

HOLLYWOOD HILLS - At 11:33AM, the LAFD responded to a reported ground level fall. Once Firefighters located the hiker and assessed his injury, Air Ops conducted a hoist operation and transported the patient to the hospital.

Mike Meadows

Mike Meadows

APRIL 15-16

LAFD GIRLS CAMP

The 2023 LAFD Girls Camp provided youth ages 14-18 the opportunity to experience what it’s like to work with the women and men of the LAFD. With hands-on mentoring, teens learned about the daily work and career opportunities possible for them in the fire service.

Gary Apodaca

Gary Apodaca

John McCoy

Gary Apodaca

Gary Apodaca

John McCoy

APRIL

16

STRUCTURE FIRE

WINNETKA - At 1:06PM, the LAFD responded to the 20100 block of Gilmore Street for a reported structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire showing from an attached carport which extended into the back of a single-family dwelling. 44 crew members extinguished the blaze in 28 minutes and defended two adjacent residences from damage.

Greg Doyle

Greg Doyle Greg Doyle

APRIL 17

RV AND BOAT CATCH FIRE ON FREEWAY

LAKE VIEW TERRACE - Firefighters extinguished flames that consumed an RV and the boat it was towing on the 210 Freeway near Osborne Avenue at 8:42PM.

APRIL

19

FIREFIGHTERS SWIFTLY SMOTHER FLAMES

BOYLE HEIGHTS - It took 20 Firefighters just 12 minutes to access, confine, and fully extinguish intense flames that consumed the front section of a one-story home at 2833 East 4th Street. Thankfully no injuries were reported.

John McCoy

John McCoy

Ismael Miranda

APRIL 20

LAFD 2022 FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR: CAPTAIN PAUL EGIZI

LOS ANGELES - The Los Angeles Firefighters Association honored 36-year LAFD veteran Captain II Paul Egizi as their 2022 Firefighter of the Year at a luncheon ceremony at the landmark Biltmore Hotel. Paul joined the Department on February 8, 1987, and held the ranks of Paramedic, Firefighter, Apparatus Operator, Captain I, and Captain II. In addition to serving in fire stations throughout the City, he has worked in special duty assignments at the Training Academy and Air Operations. Wanting to contribute even more to the City and his community, Paul served as an Explorer Advisor for several years. He is also a member of the LAFD’s Field Incident Management Team as Air Operations Branch Director and has been involved in key projects and essential development committees.

Gary Apodaca

Gary Apodaca

John McCoy

APRIL 26

LAFD PREVENTS TRUCK FIRE FROM DAMAGING APARTMENTS

KOREATOWN - First arriving members of the LAFD made quick work of extinguishing a truck on fire in the first-floor parking garage of a four-story apartment building located at 207 Kenmore Avenue. The blaze was confined to the pickup truck, preventing any structural damage to the building.

Michael Scott Michael Scott

FIREFIGHTER INJURED AT COMMERCIAL FIRE

DOWNTOWN - At 5:45PM, the LAFD responded to a reported structure fire in the 640 block of San Pedro Street. The first arriving Firefighters reported finding a two-story commercial building with an outside fire which was extending into the building. Facing both rolling steel and heavy-duty security doors, crews used rotary saws to cut their way into the building. The 38 Firefighters on scene quickly got water on the blaze and achieved a full knockdown in 30 minutes. The fire was held at the front of the building and prevented from extending back through the structure. One Firefighter sustained a non-lifethreatening leg injury and was transported to the hospital for care.

John McCoy

John McCoy

John McCoy

John McCoy

HORSE RESCUE

SYLMAR - At 4:34PM, Firefighters along with Urban Search and Rescue Task Forces from Fire Stations 88 and 89 responded to the 14500 block of Olive View Drive to conduct a technical rescue of a horse lodged in a narrow wedge along a trail. A horse rescue specialist from LA Animal Services Specialized Mobile Animal Rescue Team (SMART) was also able to get on scene and worked with Firefighters to devise a plan. A hoist rescue was not possible with the horse on its back, so crews began digging around the animal until it was able to get up on its own and walk out uninjured. The tremendous teamwork of all involved brought a swift and positive outcome.

Greg Doyle

Greg Doyle Greg Doyle

Mike Meadows

MAY

12

RV FIRE

PACOIMA - Firefighters extinguished a blaze consuming an RV in the 11500 block of Bradley Avenue at 8:39PM.

MAY 11

AUTO FIRE

RESEDA - The LAFD responded to the 19300 block of Vanowen Street for a pickup truck on fire at 4:07PM. Fire Engine 73 quickly extinguished the flames without injury.

Leo Kaufman

Ismael Miranda Ismael Miranda

Leo Kaufman

MAY 15

FIRE SWEEPS THROUGH SOUTH LA HOME

DISPLACING SIX

HARVARD PARK - It took 32

Firefighters just 17 minutes to access, confine, and fully extinguish heavy fire within a one-story home located at 1626 West 62nd Street. The non-injury fire of undetermined origin caused $125,000 in damage and led to the displacement of five adults, one child, and three dogs who were assisted by the American Red Cross.

MAY 16

DEADLY METROLINK TRAIN VS. VEHICLE COLLISION

VALLEY GLEN - Crews responded to a collision where a 57-year-old male driver and sole occupant of a compact car died after his vehicle was struck by a Metrolink commuter train near Coldwater Canyon Avenue and Raymer Street.

Justin Johnson

Justin Johnson

Mike Meadows

MAY 22

SUV SMASHES INTO SUSHI RESTAURANT

STUDIO CITY - Firefighters responded to a vehicle that crashed through the front of a sushi restaurant at 1:35PM. Thankfully, no one was injured and Urban Search and Rescue removed the vehicle from the business.

MAY 24 COPTER CREW RESCUES STRANDED HIKER

BELL CANYON - The LAFD responded by ground and air into nearby Ventura County at the far west end of the San Fernando Valley to assist an uninjured hiker who became stranded in rugged rocky terrain near the popular Cave of Munits. The patient was safely hoisted aboard a hovering rescue helicopter before being transported to a safe landing zone nearby.

MAY 19 PROMPT RESPONSE LIMITS DAMAGE TO HOME

VALLEY VILLAGE - A Paramedic team completing a nearby medical emergency was the first to arrive at the scene of a burning two-story home located at 11911 Hartsook Street shortly before noon. The pair was soon joined by 42 additional responders who skillfully battled flames in the home for half an hour before bringing the non-injury blaze under control.

Austin Gebhardt

Leo Kaufman Mike Meadows

MAY 29

FIRE RIPS THROUGH INDUSTRIAL BUILDING

VAN NUYS - A persistent battle by 40 Firefighters led to a quick extinguishment of a commercial fire at an upholstery store and auto shop in the 14700 block of Bessemer Street.

Hrach Tiflizyan

Hrach Tiflizyan

Hrach Tiflizyan

JUNE 7

CREWS BATTLE MAJOR EMERGENCY WAREHOUSE FIRE

LINCOLN HEIGHTS - It took 120 Firefighters 95 minutes of largely defensive operations to confine flames within a heavily damaged two-story commercial building located at 1773 Sichel Street that housed storage for an event planning business as well as a permitted marijuana growing operation.

Jack Quillin

Jack Quillin

Jack Quillin

JUNE

AUTO FIRE

SYLMAR - At 11:59PM, the LAFD responded to the 12800 block of Encinitas Avenue for a reported auto fire. Firefighters quickly extinguished well involved flames in a small vehicle at a gas station with no injuries reported.

Ismael Miranda

Ismael Miranda

JUNE 11

LITTER BASKET OPERATION

LA RIVER - At 12:34PM, the LAFD responded to reports of a person in the LA River. Firefighters located a 26-year-old female patient who fell approximately 25 feet and sustained a possible leg fracture. Crews used a litter basket operation to bring the patient up to street level for transport to the hospital in fair condition.

Henry Berkson

Henry Berkson

Henry Berkson

Henry Berkson

JUNE 11

STRUCTURE FIRE

EAST HOLLYWOOD - At 1:27PM, the LAFD responded to a reported structure fire in the 1030 block of Vermont Avenue. Firefighters arrived at a six-story apartment building under construction with fire on the third floor and were able to quickly extinguish the blaze before it extended into the framing of the structure.

JUNE 13 L AFD QUICKLY SMOTHERS GRASS FIRE

NORTH HOLLYWOOD - With the help of California Highway Patrol Officers who quickly closed an adjacent freeway offramp, Firefighters from Stations 60 and 89 were able to safely and swiftly control flames that consumed grass alongside the 170 Freeway at Sherman Way.

Henry Berkson

Mike Meadows Mike Meadows

JUNE 18 VEGETATION FIRE

SEPULVEDA BASIN - Task Force 88 and Water Tender 88 extinguished a small grass fire at a Model Aircraft Field on Woodley Avenue at 3:42PM.

JUNE 20

TRASH TRUCK FIRE

NORTH HOLLYWOOD - At 11:51AM, crews fully extinguished a trash truck fire in the 5700 block of Fulcher Avenue.

Mike Meadows

Mike Meadows

Greg Doyle

Greg Doyle

JUNE 21

FATALITY FIRE

BROADWAY-MANCHESTER - At 12:17AM, the LAFD responded to a reported structure fire in the 11300 block of Main Street. The first arriving fire company found a metal clad, commercial building well involved in flames. Firefighters initiated a defensive operation and extinguished the blaze in 38 minutes. While conducting the primary search, they located an adult male inside the building and Firefighter/Paramedics determined him sadly beyond medical help. The LAPD and the LAFD Arson Section were on scene to conduct an investigation of this tragic incident.

Jacob Valin

Jacob Valin Jacob Valin

Jacob Valin

Jacob Valin

JUNE 22

F IREFIGHTERS EVACUATE OCCUPANTS DURING

SUPPRESSION OPERATION

DOWNTOWN - Firefighters responded to the Flower District at 3:12PM and found an outside rubbish fire at the rear of a two-story commercial building with residential units on the second floor. The fire appeared to have originated as an exterior fire, with flames rapidly spreading inside the firstfloor commercial space and threatening to burn more units. Firefighters assisted with evacuations and performed a rapid and systematic search of all units, halting the spread of the blaze. 148 Firefighters extinguished the blaze in one hour and 35 minutes. A total of four commercial units downstairs and four residential units suffered damaged. A 28-year-old female was transported to the hospital in fair condition. The Red Cross assisted approximately 30 residents who were displaced while Arson Investigators responded to determine the origin of the fire.

Gary Apodaca

John McCoy

Gary Apodaca

Gary Apodaca

Gary Apodaca

Gary Apodaca

Gary Apodaca

JUNE 24

SOLAR PANEL FIRE AT TARGET

NORTHRIDGE - At 11:24AM, the LAFD responded to a reported structure fire in the 8900 block of Balboa Boulevard. Firefighters arrived to find a large retail store with smoke showing from the roof and found solar panels on fire. Crews quickly extinguished the flames before the fire spread to the interior with no injuries reported.

Greg Doyle

Greg Doyle

JULY

4

FIREFIGHTERS HOLD BRUSH FIRE TO TWO ACRES

ELYSIAN PARK - A brush fire was reported at 5:31PM in the 1300 block of Stadium Way. Approximately 75 Firefighters worked by ground and air to hold the fire to two acres, containing the blaze in 46 minutes. LAFD Crew 3 and Community Emergency Response Team members responded to support Firefighters. No structures were damaged and no injuries were reported

JULY 4

FIREWORKS IGNITE BLAZE

SYLMAR - At 7:40PM, Firefighters responded to a reported vegetation fire in the 13500 block of Borden Street. Crews arrived to find a fire burning in the yard of a single-family dwelling and quickly extinguished the flames with no injuries reported. The fire was started by the use of illegal fireworks and damaged a total of six vehicles.

Ismael Miranda Ismael Miranda

Ismael Miranda

Austin Gebhardt Austin Gebhardt

JULY

5

FIREFIGHTERS RESCUE

TRAPPED CANINE

TUJUNGA - Firefighters helped a man recover his beloved dog that was trapped in a narrow space between two buildings. The animal was believed to have been stuck overnight after trying to flee the sound of fireworks. Firefighters were made aware of the trapped dog while finishing up with a medical response nearby. Crews were able to retrieve the dog safely and without any apparent injuries.

JULY 10

FIREFIGHTERS HOLD DAMAGE TO ONE BUILDING AND SPARE TWO OTHERS

WESTLAKE - At 2:46AM, the LAFD responded to 2422 7th Street to find a two-story mixed-use building with smoke showing from the second floor. Firefighters were met with challenges including rolling steel doors and several large security doors, requiring use of rotary saws to gain entry. Crews quickly deployed ladder pipe operations and large diameter hand lines to attack the fire from the exterior and additional units focused on defending each exposure while safely evacuating the adjoining apartment building. Over 90 Firefighters battled intense flames for 94 minutes before successfully achieving a knockdown. Unfortunately, 11 residents were displaced.

Callum Parry

Callum Parry

Jeffrey Sambar Jeffrey Sambar

JULY 11

CAR FIRE EXTENDS TO VEGETATION

ELYSIAN PARK - The LAFD assisted by City Park Rangers and a helicopter from the LACoFD responded by ground and air to battle a small wildfire sparked by a vehicle fire that occurred on the Arroyo Seco Parkway.

JULY 11

LAFD AND PARK RANGERS TACKLE WILDFIRE

SEPULVEDA BASIN - Flames quickly consumed nearly three acres of dry vegetation in the Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area. The LAFD, with the assistance of City Park Rangers, had the flames under control in less than an hour.

Mike Meadows

Mike Meadows

Austin Gebhardt

Austin Gebhardt

FIRE SWEEPS THROUGH APARTMENTS DISPLACING 22

HOLLYWOOD – At 5:21PM, the LAFD was notified by several 911 callers of one or more vehicles ablaze in a detached carport behind 7764 Hollywood Boulevard. First arriving Firefighters discovered that flames had extended beyond the carport to vegetation and one nearby apartment building where a woman was reportedly trapped. Discovering the woman on the second floor, they assisted her outside and transported her to an area hospital for smoke inhalation and a burn injury. A total of 126 Firefighters, including members of the LACoFD, confined the fire to two apartment buildings and a carport. The blaze was extinguished in 102 minutes with two Firefighters sustaining injuries, one with a hand laceration was treated at the scene while the other was transported to an area hospital with a non-life-threatening burn injury. With 18 apartment units seriously damaged by flames, volunteers from the American Red Cross assisted 22 displaced residents.

Harry Garvin

Harry Garvin

JULY

14

FIREFIGHTERS

DOUSE GRASS FIRE

MISSION HILLS - At 12:15PM, Firefighters were summoned to reports of a rubbish fire on the side of the 5 Freeway near the 118 Freeway interchange. Fire spread to the nearby vegetation and consumed approximately 1.5 acres. It took 22 Firefighters 43 minutes to locate the fire, establish a water supply to the freeway location, and extinguish the burning dry grass on the shoulder of the interchange.

JULY 14

FIREFIGHTERS EXTINGUISH GARAGE FIRE AND PROTECT HOME

TUJUNGA - Firefighters were summoned to the 6500 block of Agnes Avenue at 6:25PM to find a detached garage with heavy fire showing. Flames spread to the home on the adjacent property, but Firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze to limit the damage to the exposed home. It took 30 Firefighters 20 minutes to fully extinguish the fire with no reported injuries.

Mike Meadows

Mike Meadows

JULY

24

BRUSH FIRE HELD TO ONE ACRE

TARZANA – The LAFD responded to the 18600 block of Mulholland Drive for a brush fire at 1:51PM. In heavy brush and steep terrain, 75 Firefighters attacked the fire by ground and air with help from the LACoFD and the Mountains Recreation Conservation Authority. All forward progress of the fire was stopped at approximately one acre after one hour and nine minutes. One person was transported to the hospital with an ankle injury and heat-related illness.

JULY 25

FIRE CREWS ASSIST LACOFD AT VICTOR FIRE

CANYON COUNTRY –

At 3:24PM, the LAFD responded to a reported brush fire in the 15300 block of Sierra Highway. The 50-acre fire was within the LACoFD jurisdiction and the LAFD served as an assisting agency in the fight.

Austin Gebhardt

Austin Gebhardt

Austin Gebhardt

Austin Gebhardt

Austin Gebhardt

JULY 25

GREATER ALARM FIRE

EAST HOLLYWOOD - At 11:14AM, Firefighters arrived to a vacant fourplex with heavy fire showing in the 570 block of Normandie Avenue. Crews initiated an offensive operation, simultaneously conducting vertical ventilation and an interior fire attack. The incident rose to the Greater Alarm level with over 70 Firefighters achieving a knockdown in two hours and three minutes. Two Firefighters were transported to the hospital with heat-related illness and returned to duty later that same day.

Henry Berkson Henry Berkson

Henry Berkson

JULY 26

VEHICLE OFF FREEWAY

INJURES FIVE

WEST LOS ANGELES - At 2:20AM, the LAFD responded to a reported traffic accident on the 10 Freeway at National Boulevard. Firefighters located a vehicle that went down an embankment and a total of five people were transported, three in critical condition, to the hospital.

Raphael Richardson

Raphael Richardson Raphael Richardson

Raphael Richardson

JULY 26

L AFD ASSISTS AT OWEN FIRE

TOPANGA CANYON - At 2:01PM, the LAFD responded to a request for mutual aid by the LACoFD for a brush fire at Topanga Canyon Boulevard and Santa Maria Road. The LAFD served as an assisting agency and helped contain the fire to approximately 50 acres.

Austin Gebhardt

JULY 31

FIREFIGHTERS SNUFF

OUT COMMERCIAL FIRE

NORTH HOLLYWOOD - At 6:33PM, Firefighters responded to the 6700 block of Farmdale Avenue for a twostory commercial structure fire. 50 Firefighters extinguished the flames in 26 minutes and a 50-year-old male was located and received medical attention by Paramedics but did not require hospital transport.

Austin Gebhardt

Austin Gebhardt Mike Meadows

Mike Meadows

AUGUST 1

CREWS BATTLE HILLSIDE HOUSE FIRE

LINCOLN HEIGHTS - At 2:17AM, Firefighters responded to the 2300 block of Coral Street for a three-story hillside home on fire. 73 Firefighters worked relentlessly on the stubborn blaze and systematically eliminated flames from each of the floors and the attic within 88 minutes. One Firefighter came into contact with electricity and was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

AUGUST 2

INTENSE FLAMES CONSUME VACANT HOME

VERMONT SQUARE - The LAFD responded to a vacant singlefamily home with heavy fire showing in the 1300 block of West 41st Street at 1:43AM. Crews fought the majority of the fire in defensive operations and transitioned to an interior attack to complete the final suppression efforts. It took 55 Firefighters 50 minutes to access, confine, and extinguish the flames.

Jacob Terzoli

Jacob Terzoli

Jacob Terzoli

Jacob Terzoli

Jacob Terzoli

Jacob Terzoli

Jacob Terzoli

AUGUST

5

21ST ST. BALDRICK’S FUNDRAISER

PORTER RANCH – Several community members and those who proudly serve them, including LAFD Chief Kristin Crowley and LAPD Chief Michel Moore, gathered at The Vineyards shopping center for the 21st LAFD/LAPD St. Baldrick’s Fundraiser to conquer children’s cancer.

AUGUST 5

TRIO OF AGENCIES QUICKLY DOUSE BRUSH FIRE

HOLLYWOOD HILLS - The Los Angeles City and County Fire Departments were joined by Beverly Hills Firefighters in sparing four hillside homes from wildfire damage as flames erupted near the 1600 block of Laurel Canyon Boulevard. It took the 90 Firefighters nearly an hour to fully extinguish the flames.

Jason Hing

Jason Hing

Mike Meadows

Mike Meadows

Jason Hing

AUGUST

6

WILDFIRE HELD TO THREE ACRES

GRIFFITH PARK - A precise series of water drops by LAFD helicopters made quick work extinguishing the perimeters of a three-acre, non-injury wildfire that occurred in steep terrain near the Los Angeles Zoo.

AUGUST

16

ATTIC FIRE DAMAGES HOME

CHATSWORTH - It took 26

Firefighters 27 minutes to access, confine, and fully extinguish flames in the attic of a one-story home located at 22052 Hiawatha Street. The fire caused $50,000 in damage, but thankfully there were no injuries.

Hirach Tiflizyan

Mark Lassman

Mike Meadows

Mike Meadows

AUGUST 16 GROUND CREWS

STOP GRASS FIRE

SEPULVEDA BASIN - More than two dozen Firefighters made quick work of a two-acre grass fire in the Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area. The spray-androll capability of the 2,300-gallon capacity Water Tender 88 aided in curtailing the non-injury blaze.

AUGUST 23 HOMES PROTECTED FROM FIRE

HOLLYWOOD HILLS - The LAFD responded by ground and air to quickly extinguish a vegetation fire in the 2400 block of Weid Place. The fire was held to a quarter of an acre and no structures were threatened.

Mike Meadows

Jack Quillin Jack Quillin

Mike Meadows

AUGUST 29

FIREFIGHTERS BATTLE COMMERCIAL FIRE AMID HEATWAVE

DOWNTOWN - At 10:54AM, the LAFD responded to a one-story commercial building on fire and made entry with hose lines, extinguishing the fire on the first floor. Crews then contained an additional fire within the mezzanine level. Ultimately, it took 88 Firefighters 57 minutes to access, confine, and extinguish the flames. Volunteers from the CERT program provided hydration packs to support Firefighters as they battled this blaze during an intense heatwave.

Brandon Taylor

Brandon Taylor

FIREFIGHTERS BATTLE INTENSE

FLAMES FUELED BY TEXTILES

DOWNTOWN - While returning to their fire station after a different emergency incident, Firefighters discovered heavy smoke coming out of a commercial building in the 1100 block of Los Angeles Street and were the first to report it to Metropolitan Fire Communications. Crews immediately began battling the fire, which burned for several hours and was fueled by large quantities of textiles inside the business. Firefighters deployed master streams by way of large-diameter hand lines, ladder pipes, and portable monitors which can launch up to 1,000 gallons of water per minute. The intense fire conditions weakened the building and eventually the walls began buckling, collapsing the roof. Over 120 Firefighters skillfully defended neighboring businesses, preventing any further spread of the flames. Thankfully, no injuries were reported and Fire Investigators responded to determine a cause of the blaze.

Gary Apodaca

Jacob Terzoli

Jacob Terzoli

Jacob Terzoli

REACTIVE METAL IN BURNING VEHICLE LEADS TO DRAMATIC FLAMES

HISTORIC SOUTH CENTRAL - Despite intense flames caused by thermally reactive metal used in the construction of the sports car, the crew from Engine 15 quickly extinguished the non-injury fire in the 3200 block of Main Street.

Jack Quillin

SEPTEMBER 10 PICKUP TRUCK COLLIDES WITH AMBULANCE

PACOIMA – An ambulance responding to the scene of a medical emergency was struck broadside by a pickup truck at the intersection of Van Nuys Boulevard and San Fernando Road. The truck carrying two adult male occupants collided with a utility pole, trapping both civilians in the wreckage. Despite severe damage to the cab of the ambulance, the two Firefighter/ Paramedics were able to extricate themselves from the LAFD vehicle and commence care for the two severely injured civilians who were taken by ambulance to a regional trauma center in critical condition. Both Paramedics were later transported to an area hospital in fair condition for treatment of non-lifethreatening injuries. The initial medical emergency that the Paramedic team was responding to was quickly and successfully handled by another LAFD crew.

Brandon Taylor

Brandon Taylor Brandon Taylor

SEPTEMBER 12

FIREFIGHTERS BATTLE BLAZE IN COMMERCIAL BUILDING

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES - It took more than 150 Firefighters to extinguish heavy flames that consumed a three-story commercial building located at 329 East 4th Street.

Gary Apodaca

Gary Apodaca

Jack Quillin

Jack Quillin

Gary Apodaca

FIRE DAMAGES AUTO REPAIR FIRM

SUN VALLEY - 49 LAFD responders took just 36 minutes to access, confine, and fully extinguish a large outside fire that extended inside a commercial building located at 8540 Tujunga Avenue which housed an automotive collision repair facility.

Ismael Miranda

Ismael Miranda

Ismael Miranda

Ismael Miranda

OCTOBER 29

FIREFIGHTERS

DOUSE BRUSH FIRE

NORTH HOLLYWOOD – Crews were dispatched to a brush fire on the 170 Freeway between the Victory Boulevard and Oxnard Boulevard exits at 2:15PM. Firefighters attacked five separate small spot fires by ground and air along a 1.5-mile stretch of the freeway. After approximately two hours of battling flames in 15-20 mph winds, Firefighters achieved 100% containment on all fires in the vicinity.

OCTOBER 29 CHATSWORTH RESERVOIR BRUSH

FIRE BURNS FIVE ACRES

WEST HILLS – The LAFD was dispatched to a brush fire in the 8900 block of Moorcroft Avenue at 3:42PM.

Firefighters found a large flat area of grass burning near the Chatsworth Reservoir, with winds over 20 mph. It took 72 Firefighters approximately 90 minutes to achieve 100% containment, holding it to five acres.

Mike Meadows

Mike Meadows

Jacob Salzman

OCTOBER 30

OUTSIDE FIRE RAPIDLY SPREADS TO RESIDENCES

SAN PEDRO – Crews were dispatched to a structure fire in the 400 block of West 14th Street at 6:48AM. Firefighters encountered flames that appeared to have rapidly spread from a tree to dense outside storage, then to several residential structures. It took 52 Firefighters 48 minutes to extinguish the flames.

Jacob Terzoli

Jacob Terzoli

Jacob Terzoli

Jacob Terzoli

OCTOBER 31 COMMERCIAL FIRE

SUN VALLEY - At 8:29AM, the LAFD responded to the 7200 block of Lankershim Boulevard for a reported structure fire. Crews arrived to find a commercial building with fire showing. 34 Firefighters fully extinguished the blaze in 25 minutes with no reported injuries.

OCTOBER 31 HOUSE FIRE

BELL CANYON - At 4:09PM, the LAFD responded to a reported structure fire on Mustang Lane. First arriving Firefighters found a single-family dwelling with smoke showing on the second floor. 30 Firefighters extinguished the flames in 34 minutes.

Mike Meadows

Mike Meadows

Brandon Taylor

Brandon Taylor

NOVEMBER 4

FIERCE FIRE DESTROYS VACANT

CRAFTSMAN-STYLE RESIDENCE

WESTLAKE - It took 64 Firefighters more than two hours in largely defensive operations to access and confine heavy fire on both floors and within the attic of an apparently vacant and boarded two-story Craftsman-style residential structure. During the fierce firefight against stubborn flames, an adult male civilian exited the burning structure with third-degree burns to both legs. In critical condition, he was provided immediate care by Paramedics at the scene and during transport to a regional burn center. Due to the 117-year-old wood framed structure’s instability, LAFD Heavy Equipment was summoned to abate physical hazards.

Jack Quillin

Jack Quillin

Jack Quillin Jack Quillin

Jack Quillin

NOVEMBER

6

HEAVY RESCUE PULLS VEHICLE OUT OF WASH

VALLEY GLEN - The LAFD responded to a vehicle in the wash in the 5800 block of Coldwater Canyon Avenue at 3:16PM. Firefighters found a white sedan that had hopped the curb, crossed the sidewalk, and gone over the side into the wash. The vehicle was being held vertically against the concrete by a chain link fence. Heavy Rescue 3 responded and brought the sedan back to the street with no injuries reported.

NOVEMBER 7

FIRE CONSUMES UNOCCUPIED MOTORHOME

- Engine

SYLMAR

Company 91 quickly responded to an unoccupied motorhome fully involved with fire in the 12700 block of Hunnewell Avenue.

Ismael Miranda

Mike Meadows Mike Meadows

CREWS BATTLE BOAT FIRE IN HARBOR

SAN PEDRO - Firefighters put out flames aboard a 50-foot sport fishing boat in the Harbor after the blaze was reported at 4:08PM in Berth 85 near the Los Angeles Maritime Museum. Crews had the fire out in less than 10 minutes and one patient was evaluated for possible smoke inhalation.

EXPLOSIVE ARSON FIRE UNDER FREEWAY

DOWNTOWN - At 12:22AM, the LAFD responded to a reported rubbish fire in the 1700 block of 14th Street. The first arriving fire company found a large storage yard with pallets, trailers, and vehicles well involved in fire with buildings exposed. As Firefighters established heavy stream hand lines and ladder pipes, wind pushed the heat and flames under the freeway and across the street, igniting a second storage yard. The span of the incident covered nearly eight acres with 26 fire companies assigned. Less than three hours into the incident, the bulk of the fire was extinguished. LAFD, LA County Health Hazmat, and CalTrans worked together to safely navigate concerns regarding the structural integrity of the freeway overpass or superstructure. Ultimately, over 164 Firefighters worked through the night to extinguish the heavy flames and successfully defend three commercial buildings from damage. One fire engine sustained damage, but thankfully no Firefighters were injured.

Jason Stilwell

David Ortiz

Erik Scott

Jason Stilwell

Jason Stilwell

NOVEMBER

14

FAST MOVING FIRE

DESTROYS MOBILE HOME

SAN FERNANDO - It took 53 Firefighters just 46 minutes to fully extinguish fast moving flames that destroyed one mobile home and damaged two others in the Orange Grove Mobile Home Park located at 1600 Celis Avenue. An adult male civilian who sustained significant burn injuries to his face and hands was taken to an area hospital by Paramedics in serious condition.

NOVEMBER 23

PICKUP CONSUMED BY FIRE

NORTH HOLLYWOOD - Engine Company 89 quickly extinguished a vehicle fire that destroyed a pickup truck on the Hollywood Freeway south of Roscoe Boulevard.

Mike Meadows

Mike Meadows

Brandon Barraza

NOVEMBER

25

FIREFIGHTERS BATTLE OUTSIDE FIRE

SYLMAR - The LAFD responded to a non-injury dump truck fire that destroyed a large amount of contents in an outside yard in the 16200 Block of Filbert Street.

Ismael Miranda

Ismael Miranda Ismael Miranda Ismael Miranda

HOIST OPERATION OFF POINT FERMIN

SAN PEDRO - At 8:48AM, the LAFD responded to reports of a person over the cliff at 1 Point Fermin. LA County Lifeguards were on scene and in contact with a 32-year-old male patient at the rocky water edge. LAFD Boat 5 launched their divers to assist the Lifeguards to safely bring the patient from the water to the shore. Due to the tide conditions and location, the patient was hoisted by Air Ops and transported to the hospital with serious injuries.

Raphael Richardson

Mark McLean

Mark McLean

Raphael Richardson

Raphael Richardson

NOVEMBER 28

SHEARED HYDRANT

RESEDA - At 5:10PM, the LAFD responded to a reported traffic collision with a sheared hydrant. Firefighters provided patient care to the involved parties while also shutting down the hydrant.

NOVEMBER

30

BIG RIG FIRE EXTENDS TO BRUSH

SUN VALLEY - At 9:54AM, the LAFD responded to a reported auto fire on the 210 Freeway at La Tuna Canyon Road. Firefighters located a fully involved big rig tractor with a trailer attached with flames extending into the brush. The incident was upgraded to a full brush response and Firefighters extinguished both fires in 41 minutes.

Hrach Tiflizyan

Brandon Taylor

Hrach Tiflizyan

DECEMBER 1

ARMED SUSPECT AT STRUCTURE FIRE

CHATSWORTH - At 1:57PM, the LAFD responded to a structure fire in the 9600 block of Laramie Avenue. The first arriving fire company found heavy smoke showing from a single-family dwelling; however, this was an unusual incident because Firefighters received reports of an armed suspect in the home. Due to the immediate threat to life safety, crews staged while the LAPD responded. Due to the intensity of the blaze, the LAPD could not make access to the backyard where the suspect was located and requested the LAFD to provide relief. As Firefighters deployed a hand line from a defensive position, officers were able to take the suspect into custody. The female suspect was transported in grave condition and pronounced deceased at the hospital. Over 70 Firefighters quickly executed an offensive operation against the well involved home and extinguished the fire in 23 minutes. The tremendous teamwork of all of the agencies involved ensured that no one else was injured and no other homes were damaged.

Jacob Salzman

Jacob Salzman

Jacob Salzman

DECEMBER

5 LAFD BATTLES

FLAMES IN HOME

PORTER RANCH – Crews were dispatched to a structure fire at 5:17PM in the 10900 block of Key West Avenue. Upon arrival, Firefighters found a one-story home with fire showing and were able to contain the majority of the fire to the attached garage. Two elderly residents were transported to a local hospital in fair condition due to smoke inhalation. Ultimately, it took 33 Firefighters 25 minutes to extinguish the flames.

DECEMBER 7

EARLY MORNING FIRE CONSUMES AUTO REPAIR SHOP

SYLMAR - Crews responded to 12909 San Fernando Road to find a metal clad automotive repair shop heavily involved with fire. Despite structural collapse in the early minutes of the fire and downed high voltage electric lines, it took 68 LAFD Firefighters just 38 minutes to access, confine, and fully extinguish the flames.

Jacob Salzman Ismael Miranda

Ismael Miranda Ismael Miranda

DECEMBER 7

VEHICLE DOWN HILLSIDE

BRENTWOOD - At 10:20AM, the LAFD responded to the 300 block of Kenter Avenue for a reported vehicle down the hillside. Crews located a single vehicle which rolled from the driveway above the property down into the backyard of the lower house. They extricated the adult female driver and transported her to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. LAFD Heavy Rescue and Urban Search and Rescue crews worked together to safely pull the vehicle back up the hill.

DECEMBER 16

MAJOR EMERGENCY FIRE

FLORENCE - At 12:28PM, the LAFD responded to a reported structure fire in the 900 block of 59th Street. Firefighters arrived to find a large commercial building with heavy fire showing and multiple buildings exposed. After a nearly 90-minute battle, over 80 Firefighters extinguished the fire with no injuries reported and limited damage to an exposed building.

Eric Fox

Eric Fox

Frank Lira Frank Lira

DECEMBER 17

ATTIC

FIRE

VALLEY VILLAGE -

At 6:35AM, the LAFD responded to the 12300 block of Riverside Drive for a reported structure fire. Firefighters found a four-story apartment building with an attic fire in one corner of the structure. 48 Firefighters accessed, confined, and extinguished the fire in 23 minutes. One adult female patient was transported to the hospital in fair condition.

DECEMBER 19

RUPTURED WATER

PIPELINE CLOSES BUSY INTERSECTION

VAN NUYS - Amidst a strong rainstorm, LAFD Task Force 39 preceded utility repair crews to the intersection of Hazeltine Avenue and Hart Street, where a large subterranean water pipeline had ruptured, spewing asphalt and flooding nearby streets. The Firefighters cordoned off the area to prevent injury or property damage until LADWP crews arrived to begin the repair.

Austin Gebhardt

Mike Meadows

DECEMBER

19

LAFD RESCUES TRIO OF UNINJURED TEENS FROM RAIN SLICKENED SLOPE

BEVERLY CREST - Though three teenagers thankfully escaped injury when their car toppled down a steep hillside along Mulholland Drive near Java Drive, the trio remained stranded at the bottom of the long rain-slickened slope until responders were able to hoist them one-by-one to the roadway above using a basket stretcher and rope rescue system.

Henry Berkson Henry Berkson

Henry Berkson

Henry Berkson

Henry Berkson

DECEMBER 26

FIREFIGHTERS DOUSE

BURNING CAR

SYLMAR – At 7:07PM, fire crews quickly extinguished flames that consumed a sedan in the 13200 block of Bradley Avenue.

Ismael Miranda

DECEMBER 31

MAJOR EMERGENCY FIRE

VAN NUYS - At 9:32PM, the LAFD responded to the 6400 block of Van Nuys Boulevard for a reported structure fire in a large commercial building that housed three separate businesses, including a textile firm and a church. Crews arrived to find smoke showing, but after making entry and ventilating the roof, flames began shooting over 30 feet out of the structure so Firefighters had to relocate their efforts to the exterior of the building. Over 100 Firefighters battled flames for two hours and 39 minutes, successfully preventing the blaze from spreading to adjacent businesses.

Mike Meadows

Mike Meadows Mike Meadows

LAFD FOUNDATION HOSTS VALOR 2023

The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation’s annual VALOR Awards Ceremony honored outstanding service above and beyond the call of duty. With a distinguished audience that included civic and community leaders, and longstanding friends of the LAFD, VALOR 2023 was held at Dodger Stadium to honor members of the LAFD who earned the Medal of Merit, Letters of Special Commendation, and LAFD Unit of the Year Award. VALOR 2023 also honored those who have stood steadfastly alongside the Department in supporting key programs and initiatives that have greatly strengthened our community with the Community Impact Award, and Foundation of the Year.

HONOREES

MEDAL OF MERIT

Firefighter

Kari Field

Firefighter/Paramedic

Jason Lawrence

Apparatus Operator

Tai Trinh

SPECIAL COMMENDATION

Apparatus Operator

David Duran

Firefighter/Paramedic

Darren Lloyd

Captain I

Florin Sarbu

UNIT OF THE YEAR

Arson CounterTerrorism Section COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD

Cedars-Sinai FOUNDATION OF THE YEAR

SophiaGrace Foundation

Gary Apodaca

Gary Apodaca

Gary Apodaca

Gary Apodaca

LAFD RECRUIT TRAINING ACADEMY CLASS GRADUATIONS

In 2023, the LAFD graduated a total of 230 candidates in four Recruit Training Academy Classes from Drill Tower 81 located in Panorama City. The recruits completed a rigorous training curriculum that challenged both their physical and mental strength, preparing them for a successful career with the Department. They learned the many duties and responsibilities of being a Firefighter for the City of Los Angeles, including the safe and proper methods of handling a wide variety of specialized equipment and apparatus in Truck, Engine, and Emergency Medical Service operations. The LAFD’s training standards are some of the most demanding and competitive in the nation, with only the best being able to successfully complete the academy. These men and women trained as if their life (and yours) depends on it, because it does! After the academy, all graduates enter a year-long period of assessment as probationary Firefighters as they work alongside tenured members of the Department. UFLAC joins Fire Chief Kristin Crowley in welcoming our newest Firefighters into our ranks!

Gary Apodaca

Gary Apodaca

Gary Apodaca

John McCoy

Gary Apodaca

Gary Apodaca

John McCoy

Gary Apodaca

Gary Apodaca

UNITED FIREFIGHTERS OF LOS ANGELES CITY FIRE FOUNDATION

MISSION

The United Firefighters of Los Angeles City Fire Foundation (UFLACFF) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that provides financial support to Firefighters and their immediate families who suffer economic hardship as a result of illness, injury or death, as well as educational assistance to children of fallen Firefighters.

We are also committed to providing training and support for fire service members who can better protect the lives and property of the citizens of Los Angeles. To achieve this mission, UFLACFF will provide Firefighters with financial assistance for progressive fire training programs, technology, and equipment.

GOLF TOURNAMENT

In 2023, more than 50 sponsors,140 golfers, and several supporters came together for the annual fundraising event at Porter Valley Country Club to generously raise $170,000 for the UFLACFF.

GRANTS & SCHOLARSHIPS

This scholarship grant is available to any active Firefighter and their immediate family to assist in their educational and career pursuits. We are proud to support our Firefighters and their loved ones in pursuing their academic and professional goals.

In 2023, the Foundation’s Scholarship Grant Fund distributed a total of $42,000 to 26 deserving recipients. Scholarships ranged from $500 to $4,000 and were distributed over two cycles.

SUMMER 2023 RECIPIENTS

Aidan J. Byrne

Cailla L. Esparza

Deslyn J. Stiles

Kylie D. Elizarraras

Maya L. Matthews

Taylor J. Brown

Ava M. Parra

Fiona C. O’Connor

Kyler G. Linton

Michael T. Cantrell

WINTER 2023 RECIPIENTS

Celeste C. Aguirre

Carson D. Fox

Dev Kumar

Autumn E. Verwey

Katherine M. Cordaro

Samatha K. Martinez

Isabella S. Porretta

Jacob V. Foster

Maura A. Ruiz

Kathleen A. Urrea

ADDITIONAL AWARDS FOR MAUI FIREFIGHTERS

In addition, six Firefighters from the Maui Fire Department who lost their homes in the devastating 2023 Maui Fire were awarded $2,000 grants.

Ikaika Neizman

Jonathan Varona

Joseph U. Bingham

Steven E. O’Donnell

Josh Gruber

Chad C. Johnson

IN REMEMBRANCE

URBAN SEARCH AND RESCUE TRAINING FACILITY NAMED IN HONOR OF LAFD CAPTAIN JOHN RUEDY

First responders from across California joined members of the LAFD on September 28, 2023 for the formal dedication of the John Ruedy Memorial Training Center, a regional facility focused on providing both classroom education and hands-on training in Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) specialties.

John Edward Ruedy began his career with the LAFD on July 9, 1989. He served all throughout the city, but his time as a Captain I at Fire Station 89 was where he found his fire family. John worked hard to be stationed at a USAR fire station, on a CAL Fire team as well as the LAFD FEMA Team. Sadly, the 31-year LAFD veteran succumbed to job-related cancer in 2021. John’s final years were spent as the USAR Unit commander, as well as the liaison for the LAFD’s state and federal USAR task forces. He is survived by his wife and two children.

The training center dedication took place on the 30th anniversary of the founding of USAR California Task Force 1 (CA-TF1), a FEMA USAR Task Force sponsored by the LAFD. The ceremony also honored two of Captain Ruedy’s close colleagues, LAFD Battalion Chief Craig White and Firefighter Jarvis Willis, who were feted for their trailblazing accomplishments in USAR preparedness, training, and response, as they jointly announced their well-earned retirement from the LAFD.

COMMEMORATING THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF FIRE 3 CRASH

25 years gone but the memories of the day Fire 3 went down remain etched into the heart and soul of the City. On March 23, 1998 while transporting a critically injured 12-year-old traffic collision patient to Children’s Hospital, Fire 3 developed a disastrous mechanical failure. Despite having near total loss of control, Pilot Steven Robinson expertly maneuvered the aircraft away from the homes below and subsequently crashed at an intersection near Griffith Park in the district of Fire Station 82, Battalion 5. Three LAFD members and their young patient, Norma Vides-Anaya, were killed in the crash while two additional members were seriously injured. Each year, members from Battalion 5 return to this sacred spot and give a salute at 7:40AM, the time Fire 3 went down. They perform landscaping maintenance and polish the plaque to ensure our brothers are never forgotten. This year, we were especially honored to have members from FF/PM Eric Reiner’s family visit, bringing his namesake, a newborn grandson.

We remember and honor their sacrifice:

Michael D. McComb Apparatus Operator

Michael A. Butler Firefighter/Paramedic

Eric F. Reiner Firefighter/Paramedic

LIGHT THE NIGHT 2023

Every year, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation sponsors the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, the official national tribute to those Firefighters who died in the line of duty during the previous year. In 2017, the Foundation created Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters to recognize the 25th Anniversary of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend. Since then, Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters has expanded to include fire departments and families lighting their homes in red. From May 4-7, 2023, City of Los Angeles landmarks from Los Angeles International Airport to City Hall shone in red in honor of Fallen Firefighters everywhere.

LOVED ONES GATHER FOR CAPTAIN ROQUE MEMORIAL PLAQUE UNVEILING

With heavy hearts, the LAFD had to say an early goodbye to Captain George Roque who passed away due to complications of COVID-19 in 2020. Captain Roque was a 22-year veteran of the LAFD, last assigned to Fire Station 97. The Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association donated a plaque affixed to the front of Fire Station 97 which will permanently honor the memory of Captain Roque. On March 25, 2023, Fire Chief Kristin Crowley, LAFD members, and loved ones gathered in front of the newly mounted plaque to celebrate his memory.

FIREFIGHTERS CONDUCT ‘STAFF RIDE’ TRAINING TO COMMEMORATE GRIFFITH PARK DISASTER

Prior to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the greatest modern day Firefighter loss of life at a single incident in the United States took place nearly 90 years ago in the hills of Griffith Park. While few members of the public know of the October 3, 1933 brush fire that killed 29 civilian fire control workers, the Depression Era crisis was a monumental event in American fire service history. To commemorate the incident, honor the fallen, and embrace key lessons of fire management and safety, Firefighters from throughout the region joined members of the LAFD in a ‘Staff Ride’ educational event sponsored by the Los Angeles Area Regional Training Group (RTG). Using military style immersive learning principles, RTG facilitators escorted participants to a series of ‘stands’ where the tragic events unfolded that day in 1933, providing each student a learning experience that will never be forgotten.

9/11 REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY

A 23-ton, nearly 22-foot tall steel column located at the LAFD Frank Hotchkin Memorial Training Center in Elysian Park, once part of the lobby structure from the World Trade Center in New York, served as a fitting backdrop for Los Angeles civic and community leaders and special guests, who gathered with first responders on September 11, 2023 for a National Day of Service and Remembrance Ceremony.

Gary Apodaca

Gary Apodaca

Gary Apodaca

Gary Apodaca

Gary Apodaca Henry Berkson Henry Berkson

IN MEMORIAM

BRIAN G. CORNTASSEL

Firefighter III

DOD: April 4, 2023

Appointed: October 23, 2000

Status: Fire Station 5

The men and women of the LAFD are deeply saddened by the death of Firefighter III Brian G. Corntassel who died while off duty at home. His sudden and unexpected passing was a tremendous loss to his family, friends, our City and Department. Brian served our communities with pride, strength, and care for more than 22 years and was most recently assigned to the “A” Shift at Fire Station 5 in Westchester.

VALERIE L. ROBERTS

Firefighter III

DOD: May 20, 2023

Appointed: March 8, 1993

Assignment: Fire Station 112

The LAFD mourns the loss of Active-Duty Firefighter/ Paramedic Valerie L. Roberts. Since joining the Department, Firefighter/ Paramedic Roberts served the people of Los Angeles with integrity, courage, and compassion. She was assigned to the Department’s Quality Improvement Unit at the time of her passing after a long battle with cancer. She was taken from her colleagues, friends, and family far too soon.

DANIEL P. RAMIREZ

Firefighter III

DOD: August 1, 2023

Appointed: July 26, 1990

Assignment: Fire Station 69

We mourn the tragic passing of our beloved Brother and celebrate the life of ActiveDuty Firefighter/Paramedic Daniel P. Ramirez, who died while off duty. Brother Ramirez served the people of Los Angeles with courage, respect, and compassion for more than three decades. He started his career as a young fireman in Battalion 13 at 64s then worked at 26s, 89s, 90s, and his last assignment was at Fire Station 69 “C” Platoon.

FATHER

CHRISTIAN VAN LIEFDE

LAFD Chaplain

DOD: May 19, 2023

Appointed: October 23, 1980

The Department is saddened by the death of longtime LAFD Chaplain Father Christian Van Liefde. “Father Chris,” as he was fondly known, uniquely served the LAFD as a volunteer. For decades, he dedicated his time helping with The Spark of Love Toy Drive. Many will remember him stopping at fire stations throughout the city, picking up toys, and delivering them to Toy Central. Father Chris died after celebrating his 50-year reunion of being ordained as a Catholic Priest with 11 of his classmates. He will truly be missed.

RECOGNITION