As you may have recently heard, the men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department are mourning the off-duty passing of fellow Firefighter Eric Shepherd.

The LAFD would like to share some additional information about this very special man...

Eric Shepherd was born on July 12th, 1978 at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles. Raised in Carson, California, Eric graduated from Long Beach Jordan High School in 1996. Later that year, Eric joined the United States Air Force and served as a firefighter in Kuwait and at home at Edwards Air Force Base. After four years of dedicated service to his country, Eric was honorably discharged as a Senior Airman.

In July of 2003, Eric joined the Los Angeles Fire Department. Following the drill tower and probationary assignments, Eric transferred to Fire Station 29 in Battalion 11, serving the Wilshire Center and Mid-City areas of Los Angeles. Widely recognized as a conscientious and talented firefighter, as well as a generous and genuine friend, Eric quickly earned the respect and admiration of his peers and the public he proudly served. He successfully tested for the rank of engineer and was looking forward to the added challenges and responsibilities of the promotion.

Eric died suddenly while off-duty on July 18th, 2011. He is survived by his father, Ronald and his stepmother Cindy, his mother Loretta, sister Rene, and the love of his life Cacherel Smaith, with whom he brought into this world and raised as the apple of his eye, his daughter Sarai.

He was a credit to his family and friends, his country, the fire service and his department. His warmth, laughter, and easy going demeanor will always be cherished. Eric will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him.

Firefighter Eric Shepherd was assigned to Fire Station 29 "C" Platoon.

All members of the community are welcome to join us in celebrating the life of Firefighter Eric Shepherd.

Public Memorial Services for LAFD Firefighter Eric Shepherd:

• Date: Friday, July 29, 2011
• Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
• Location: Crenshaw Christian Center - "Faith Dome", 7901 South Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, CA.
• Interment: Forest Lawn, Cypress, 4471 Lincoln Avenue, Cypress, CA (immediately following Memorial Service)

 

*The Memorial Service will be streamed "live" on the "Faith Dome" (click this link) website on

Friday, July 29th from 9:30 am -12:30 pm.

*Members of the Fire Service and allied agencies that wish to have a formal presence, are asked to contact LAFD's Planning Section at (213) 978-3845.

*All flowers being delivered to the Crenshaw Christian Center "Faith Dome" for FF Shepherd's Memorial Service, must be delivered no later than 9:30 am on Friday, July 29, 2011.

*If you would like to make a donation, FF Eric Shepherd's Family respectfully asks that any donations be made to a fund that has been established for his young daughter, in her name:

        "Sarai Shepherd Educational Fund" (Account # 10000758996)
        Los Angeles Fireman's Credit Union
        815 Colorado Boulevard
        Los Angeles, CA 90041

We thank you for the outpouring of support in this time of sadness.

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - LAFD Mourns the Passing of a Fellow Firefighter

HOLLYWOOD - Sadly a man was found deceased tonight inside a residence that was on fire.




The Los Angeles Fire Department was called at 8:29 PM on Thursday, July 21, 2011 to

739 North Mariposa Avenue in Hollywood, where they found heavy smoke showing from the second story of a single family dwelling.

The first of 44 firefighters initially dispatched to the scene quickly extended hoselines inside the 3,269 square-foot residence, extinguishing the flames in just 16 minutes – only to discover a 69 year-old male. Beyond medical help, he was determined dead at the scene. No other injuries were reported.

The bulk of the flames were in one room on the second story, which was described as "packrat” like conditions. There were no smoke alarms present within the residence. Monetary loss from the blaze in the 98-year old non-fire sprinklered home is estimated at $45,000 ($25,000 structure & $20,000 contents).

A positive identification of the dead man, as well as the precise cause, time and manner of his death, will be determined the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

The cause of the fire remains the focus of a joint investigation by Los Angeles Fire and Police Department Investigators.

Dispatched Units: E52 RA52 E6 RA6 E235 T35 E227 E27 T27 T20 E220 EM14 BC5 BC11 E29 AR2 DC2 AR23 AR17

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Man Found Dead in Hollywood House Fire

PACOIMA - A woman was found dead in a quickly extinguished house fire in Pacoima, but not before a passerby who attempted to fight the flames sustained injury.

The Los Angeles Fire Department was called at 3:58 PM on Wednesday, July 13, 2011 to 11666 Bromont Avenue in Pacoima, where they found smoke showing from the front window of one story home that neighbors describe as being recently vacated.

The first of thirty-four firefighters dispatched to the scene extended a hoseline into a front room of the 1,158 square-foot building, extinguishing the fire in moments - only to discover a severely burned adult female. Beyond medical help, she was declared dead at the scene.

 
LAFD Paramedics then turned their attention to the on-site treatment of an adult male, believed to have been a passerby, who sustained a cut to his hand when he broke a window in an unsuccessful attempt to use a garden hose in battling the flames. No other injuries were reported.

The presence or functional status of smoke alarms within the residence could not be immediately ascertained. Monetary loss from the blaze, which caused minimal damage to the 47-year old non-fire sprinklered home, is still being tabulated.

A positive identification of the dead woman, as well as the precise cause, time and manner of her death, will be determined the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

The cause of the fire remains the focus of a joint investigation by Los Angeles Fire and Police Department Investigators.

Dispatched Units: E298 E98 T98 RA898 RA98 E91 E7 EM15 BC12 E77 AR2 AR9 AR11

(video) (video)

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Woman Found Dead, Man Injured in Pacoima House Fire

On Saturday, June 18, 2011 at 3:35 AM, 8 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 3 Arson Units, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 3 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, a total of 62 Firefighters along with Members from Department of Water & Power, and 1 Crisis Response Team, all under the direction of Battalion Chief John Potter responded to a Structure Fire at 2171 North Basil Lane in the Beverly Glen/Bel Air area.

Firefighters made their way up narrow windy roads to find a two-story Single Family Dwelling well involved in fire. Additional resources were immediately requested to assist in battling the intense flames and to protect near by hillside homes. Fire shot through the roof, self ventilating the structure and causing electrical power lines to fall.

Sadly, during a Search and Rescue of the 1,440 square-foot home, a 79 year-old female was located in an upstairs master-bedroom and was determined deceased. Also a 50 year-old male was transported to a local hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.

Firefighters successfully extinguished the flames in just 25 minutes. In examining the fire's aftermath, there was no immediate evidence of a functional smoke alarm within the residence. There were no window bars or security doors present to impair egress, and the 53-year old residence was not equipped with fire sprinklers.

A positive identification of the deceased woman, as well as the precise cause, time and manner of her death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office.

The cause of early morning blaze is under active investigation and monetary loss is still being tabulated.

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman

Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - House Fire Claims 1 Life in Beverly Glen/Bel Air

On Wednesday, May 4, 2011 at 4:34 PM, 13 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 5 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 6 Arson Units, 2 Urban Search and Rescue Units, 1 Hazardous Materials Team, 2 EMS Battalion Captains, 4 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, a total of 106 Los Angeles Fire Department Personnel under the direction of Battalion Chief Richard Rideout responded to a Greater Alarm Structure Fire at 2410 South 6th Avenue in the West Adams area of Los Angeles.


A column of black smoke was visible as Firefighters raced from their quarters, arriving at a two-story single-family-dwelling to find heavy fire extending out of the second floor. Fire crews mounted a rapid and offensive attack while making strong headway to locate the origin of the blaze. As they aggressively fought the flames, a simultaneous search for victims went underway.


Aided by Firefighters swiftly extending ground ladders to the steep roof of the 1700 square foot residence to perform strategic vertical ventilation with chainsaws, flames were held to the second story and attic. The blaze was fully extinguished in just twenty minutes. 


Fire teams soon discovered an adult on the second floor without vital signs of life. A positive identification of the individual, as well as the precise cause, time, and manner of death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office.

Five members from the Mayor's Crisis Response Team responded to give assistance, and provide information and contacts to help the victim's daughter deal with this terrible crisis.

The first arriving Engine company did not hear Smoke Alarms sounding, however the presence, functional status, and role of smoke alarms within the home could not be immediately determined. There were window security bars in the rear of first floor, although they did not appear to impair the occupant from escaping. The 74 year-old Tudor-style home was not equipped with residential fire sprinklers.

The cause of the fire is under active investigation and monetary loss is still being tabulated.


Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - LA Firefighters Battle Residential Blaze In West Adams Area

On Wednesday, May 4, 2011 at 12:31 AM, 5 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 4 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 5 Arson Units, 1 EMS Battalion Captain and 1 Battalion Chief Officer Command Team, a total of 41 Los Angeles Fire Department personnel under the direction of Battalion Chief Kevin Pearson, responded to a Civilian Fatality Fire at 10926 South Wilmington Avenue in Watts.

Los Angeles Firefighters arrived quickly to find a small structure affixed to the rear of a one-story home fully involved in fire, with intense flames extending to an immediately adjacent office/travel trailer, and simultaneously threatening an occupied two-story duplex to the north.

Swift action by first arriving firefighters prevented the fire from extending to the duplex, as they aggressively battled flames, confining them to the rear of the one-story home and trailer.

During a primary search, LAFD crews discovered a lifeless adult male within the trailer. Beyond medical help, he was declared dead at the scene. It was not immediately clear if the trailer had served as the man's domicile.

No other injuries were reported.

Monetary loss from the fire is still being tabulated. A positive identification of the decedent, as well as the precise cause, time and manner of his death, will be determined the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

The cause of this post-midnight blaze remains the focus of an active investigation by Los Angeles Fire and Police Department Investigators.


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Fire Involving Watts Trailer Claims One Life

On Friday, April 1, 2011 at 4:52 AM, 4 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 3 Arson Unit, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 1 Battalion Chief Officer Command Team, all under the direction of Battalion Chief Gerry Malais responded to a Structure Fire With Civilian Injury at 14655 West Leadwell Street in Van Nuys.
 
Firefighters arrived to find smoke billowing out of a 1-story single family dwelling on a corner lot. They performed a strategic attack of the flames from the ground and the roof of this smoke charged structure. A quick, bold and decisive interior search was performed of the 1200 sqft residence, which was described as having pack-rat like conditions. The bulk of the fire was reported to be in the kitchen area. Firefighters made forcible entry through a steel security front door and located a 79 year-old female inside. The victim was found face up just five feet from the front door, without signs of life. Her dog lie next to her. Firefighter/Paramedics earnestly provided CPR and Advanced Life Support at the scene and during transportation to a local hospital. The victim suffered second and third degree burns to over 90% of her body. Despite the aggressive efforts of Firefighters she was later pronounced dead at the hospital. She was described by neighbors as a beloved member of the community.

 A total of 30 firefighters were able to fully extinguish the fire in just 17 minutes. In examining the fire's aftermath, there was evidence of one smoke alarm, however its functional status could not be confirmed. There were no window bars to impair the victim's escape, nor was the 62-year old house equipped with residential fire sprinklers. The cause of this early morning blaze is under active investigation by LAFD Arson Investigators. The monetary loss from a fire can not truly be weighed in the wake of the loss of life, however the dollar loss of this incident is estimated at $100,000.

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - House Fire In Van Nuys Claims One Life

On Monday, March 7, 2011 at 6:33 AM, 6 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 2 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 3 Arson Units, 1 Battalion Chief Officer Command Team and 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, a total of 41 Los Angeles Fire Department personnel, as well as one Engine Company from the Los Angeles County Fire Department responding in Automatic Aid, all under the direction of LAFD Assistant Chief Craig Fry, responded to a Civilian Fatality Structure Fire at 1674 East 115th Street in Watts.

First-due Los Angeles City and County Firefighters arrived quickly and simultaneously to discover the inside of a one-story 1,330 square-foot single family home fully involved with fire.



Forcing entry into the residence, firefighters encountered intense flames among "pack rat" storage of personal belongings, yet pushed on relentlessly to search all parts of the fire and smoke-charged three bedroom home for a woman reportedly trapped in the inferno.

It was during this initial assault on the flames that firefighters discovered the lifeless body of an adult female within the structure. Beyond medical help, she was declared deceased at the scene.

The well coordinated firefight - including strategic vertical ventilation, confined the blaze within the home, allowing for extinguishment of the flames in just 24 minutes.

No other injuries were reported.

Along with the excessive storage that potentially hampered occupant escape, firefighters determined the building was fitted with window security bars "non-compliant" with the City's quick-release safety standard.

There was also no evidence of smoke alarms within the home as required by law. The 93 year-old wood frame building was not equipped with residential fire sprinklers.

A positive identification of the deceased woman, as well as the precise cause, time and manner of her death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office.

Monetary loss from the fire is still being tabulated.

Having ruled out an intentional act, Los Angeles Fire Department Investigators continue to look into the cause of a blaze they consider to be accidental in nature.

(video)


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - LAFD Identifies Dire Factors in Fatal Watts Fire

On Tuesday, February 22, 2011 at 3:03 AM, 5 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 4 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Arson Unit, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 1 Battalion Chief Officer Command Team, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, under the direction of Battalion Chief Charles Butler responded to a Fire Fatality at 4315 North Bluebell Avenue in Studio City.

Firefighters arrived quickly to discover heavy smoke showing from a 1200 square-foot one-story single family home. Reports came in from neighbors, of an individual who may have still been trapped inside. Fire crews forced their way through the front of the residence and were quickly met with flames just inside the entry way. They mounted a bold and decisive attack on the fire, while continuing a systematic search of the smoke charged residence, but were initially unsuccessful in locating anyone.

Near the final phase of extinguishment, firefighters discovered the remains of a burned body, possibly an adult female in the living room area of the home. Unfortunately the individual was beyond any medical help and was declared deceased at the scene.

Firefighters were able to confine the flames to just the living room portion of the structure, and extinguished the early morning blaze in just 17 minutes. This home reportedly had no smoke alarms present, with no obvious deterrents for a possible escape.

A positive identification of the deceased, as well as the cause, manner and time of death will be determined by Coroner's officials. The cause of the fire remains under active investigation.

(photos)

Submitted by Devin Gales, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Early Morning Fire Claims One Life

On Friday, February 11, 2011 at 3:01 PM, 3 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Battalion Chief Officer Command Team, personnel from Department of Transportation and Animal Services, all under the direction of Battalion Chief Duca responded to a Train vs. Pedestrian at 9370 North San Fernando Road in Sun Valley.

Firefighters arrived to find a 36 year-old male and horse, fatally struck by a Metrolink railcar. Witnesses state that the adult male was riding a horse on the train-tracks over a small bridge, just west of Sheldon Avenue, shortly before they were struck. Sadly and with certainty, firefighters determined that both were beyond medical help.

Metrolink AV Line, Train 216 came to a halt and additional firefighters rapidly assessed all passengers for injuries. Fortunately no one on-board was hurt. Metrolink then utilized buses to take passengers from Sun Valley to Burbank where they were able to board another train to their destination.

San Fernando Road between Truesdale Street and Branford Street was temporarily shut down.

Surrounding circumstances and events leading up the the incident are not fully known. A positive identification of deceased male, as well as the time, cause and exact manner of their death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Man & Horse Fatally Injured by Train

On Tuesday, February 8, 2011 at 2:51 PM, 8 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 5 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Heavy Rescue, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 1 Rehab Unit, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 2 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams and 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, a total of 65 Los Angeles Fire Department personnel under the direction of Assistant Chief David Yamahata, responded to a Trench Collapse with Civilian Fatality at 3931 Oeste Avenue in Studio City.

Firefighters arrived quickly to find an unconscious and non-breathing adult male worker buried to his neck deep within an excavation for a sewer line at a hillside residential construction site.

According to witnesses, the 33 year-old man - a ten year employee of a private construction firm, was last seen working in or near the 8 foot deep by 2 foot wide trench when the worksite foreman departed for an errand.

The collapse was not witnessed by other construction personnel working remotely on the property, and only noted by the foreman upon his return to the site after an unspecified period of time.

With an LAFD Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Team and LAFD Heavy Rescue Unit proactively assigned to the initial response, Firefighter/Dispatchers also summoned a trio of large vacuum trucks from the City's Department of Public Works, Bureau of Sanitation to assist with efficient soil removal, of what commenced wholeheartedly as a rescue operation.

With safety, speed and well-practiced efficiency, LAFD trench rescue equipment and personnel were relayed to the site, as both medical oxygen and breathing air lines were swiftly made ready. As the soil was promptly shored to protect both the patient and responders, USAR certified LAFD Paramedics were soon face-to-face with the trapped worker, to sadly determine with great certainty that he was beyond medical help.

Declaring the man deceased at 3:10 PM, rescuers - still together as a team, began the dolorous transition to recovery of the man's remains. With the enhanced shoring of trench walls and key safety procedures in place, firefighters commenced a precise rotation of personnel for the labor-intensive effort of exhuming the man's body.

More than three hours after they were first summoned, Los Angeles Fire Department responders removed the man from the trench in a dignified and respectful manner, placing his remains in custody of the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner.

No other injuries were reported.

A positive identification of the dead man, as well as the precise cause, time and manner of his death will be determined by the Coroner's Office.

Representatives from the City of Los Angeles Department of Building & Safety joined Cal/OSHA Investigators at the scene.

Questions regarding the presence, need or deceased man's use of safety equipment and approved worksite procedures remains within the purview of Cal/OSHA, which is investigating the workplace fatality.

(photos) (photos)

Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Trench Collapse Claims Life of Construction Worker in Studio City

Three civilians died and ten Los Angeles firemen were injured on the drizzling Sunday morning of February 8, 1976, when engine trouble forced the pilot of a Mercer Enterprises DC-6 charter aircraft to attempt an emergency landing at Van Nuys Airport.

Losing power, the four engine aircraft - with only a flight crew aboard, pancaked onto the Woodley Golf Course near the airport. The aircraft skipped a quarter-of-a-mile across the fairways, smashed through a starter's shack and stopped near Victory Boulevard and Havenhurst Avenue.


First-arriving Los Angeles firefighters thought they heard voices in the smashed cockpit. As a firefighter prepared to use a rotary saw to cut into the cockpit, other firefighters laid a foam blanket and stood by with foam and water supply lines.

The saw, striking a stainless steel fitting ...

We encourage you to learn more about this incident, and view dramatic photos of this and other significant LAFD events by visiting the Los Angeles Fire Department Historical Archive at:

http://lafire.com


Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - 35 Years Ago Today: Firemen Engulfed in Flames after DC-6 Crashes near Van Nuys Airport

On Friday, January 7, 2011 at 10:43 PM, 8 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 2 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, under the direction of Battalion Chief Richard Rideout responded to a Structure Fire at 1183 S. Hoover St. in Korea town.

Firefighters arrived quickly to discover heavy smoke showing from one of the lower units, of a two story four-plex. Firefighters skillfully forced entry through the well secured structure, while extending hoselines into the home's entry way to do battle within.

Fire crews were immediately notified that occupants were still somewhere in the unit and may be trapped. As they aggressively fought the flames, a simultaneous search for victims went underway. Fire teams soon discovered one adult female and one adult male without vital signs of life. Firefighters immediately initiated basic and advanced life support measures while rushing them both to an area hospital in grave condition.

Other personnel on scene continued a systematic search of the smoke charged home, locating an additional victim who was treated and transported in stable condition for smoke inhalation. 53 firefighters mounted a bold and decisive attack on the fire, confining it to the one unit, and extinguishing the flames in 31 minutes. Unfortunately, and despite the prompt work of Los Angeles Firefighter/Paramedics and hospital staff, an adult female was declared deceased shortly after arriving at the hospital. Seeking to offer additional comfort to grieving friends and neighbors, the LAFD mobilized to provide compassionate assistance to those closest to the victim.

Ten individuals were displaced as a result of this incident, and the American Red Cross was called in to assist those residents who stand in need. The monetary loss from a fire can not truly be weighed in the wake of the loss of life, however the dollar loss of this incident is still being tabulated. There were no other injuries reported. A positive identification of the deceased, as well as the cause, manner and time of her death will be determined by Coroner's officials. The cause of the fire remains under an active investigation.

Submitted by Devin Gales, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Four-Plex Catches Fire Claiming One Life

On Friday, December 17, 2010 at 4:55 PM, 6 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 2 Arson Units, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 2 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, under the direction of Battalion Chief Craig Yoder responded to a Structure Fire at 4920 East Stratford Road in Eagle Rock.

Firefighters arrived within four minutes to a one-story single-family-dwelling, fully involved in flames. Due to reports of a man possibly trapped inside, firefighters forced their way into the inferno with hand-lines. Conditions inside the pack-rat filled residence rapidly worsened as signs of impending roof collapse and structural instability forced firefighters out of the structure and to attack the blaze defensively. Shortly thereafter two-thirds of the roof caved in, walls buckled and power wires from a triplex fell.

A total of 46 Firefighters knocked down the blaze in just 22 minutes. Urban Search and Rescue specialists were called to ensure structural stability of the 85 year-old home so firefighters could perform a detailed search through the rubble.

Sadly, after an extensive two hour overhaul, the remains of one victim was found beyond medical help in the rear of the small residence. The deceased is believed to be the only resident, a handicapped elderly male. However a positive identification, as well as the cause, time and manner of the death will be determined by the Coroner's Office.

In examining the fire's aftermath, there was no immediate evidence of a functional smoke alarm within the 85-year old residence, nor was it equipped with residential fire sprinklers. There were no window bars or security doors to impair the victim's escape. Monetary loss from the fire is estimated at $200,000 ($150,000 structure & $50,000 contents). The cause of the fire is under active investigation.

Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - House Fire In Eagle Rock Claims Life

On Sunday, October 31, 2010 at 11:42 PM, 8 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 9 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Heavy Rescue, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 2 EMS Battalion Captains and 2 Battalion Chief Officers under the direction of Assistant Chief Craig Fry responded to a Physical Rescue Traffic Collision at 2701 Cincinnati Street in Boyle Heights.

Los Angeles Fire Department resources responded to call where a driver of an SUV crashed into a structure with possible trapped victims. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered 1 vehicle which made its way approximately 6-8 feet into single family dwelling. A physical rescue assignment was quickly requested to extricate the victims.



Firefighters utilizing an assortment of tools, while commencing triage of the injured parties, were face with the task of trying to find all the victims in a crowd of people. Rescue crews soon discovered a fatality, a 19y/o female who was apparently in one of the bedrooms at the time of impact. One two week old infant, who was believed to have also been in the same room of impact, was treated and transported in critical condition to USC Medical Center. Four other were also treated and transported, a 61y/o female, 16y/o female, 12y/o female and a 3y/o male, all suffered minor injuries.

It is with great sadness to report that the two week old infant was later pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the medical center. The driver who was taken by LAPD, was later transported to an area hospital for evaluation.

It is still unclear as to what caused the driver to smash onto the side of a home on a residential street always leaving the question, how could something like this happen. With the prime focus now being on, medical care of the injured and emotional support to the victim’s families, an active investigation of the incident will be conducted by the Los Angeles Police Department.

This is a reminder to us all ,that a night of celebration can quickly turn into a night of loss, in the blink of a eye.

(photos)

Submitted by Devin Gales, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Two Lives Lost After Vehicle Smashes into Boyle Heights Home

Members of the Los Angeles Fire Department are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Battalion Chief Gary L. Clark, who died suddenly while off-duty on September 22, 2010.

Chief Clark began his career with the Los Angeles Fire Department in January 1980, and at the time of his passing was Commander of LAFD's Battalion 14 'C' Platoon, serving the southeast San Fernando Valley.

He is survived by his wife, along with four sons and three daughters. Additional information regarding final arrangements will be released as soon as they become available.

To convey both our respect and sadness, the flags at all Los Angeles Fire Stations will be flown at half-staff, and uniformed members of our agency have been authorized to wear a mourning band upon their badges, until further notice.


Submitted by Erik Scott and Brian Humphrey, Spokesmen
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Firefighters Mourn The Passing of Battalion Chief Gary L. Clark

On Sunday, September 19th, 2010 at 7:59 AM, 4 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 3 Arson Units, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 1 Battalion Chief Officer Command Team, under the direction of Battalion Chief Kevin Pearson responded to a Structure Fire at 843 East 91st Street in Watts.

Firefighters arrived within four minutes to a one-story single-family-dwelling that had heavy fire showing. Jumping into action, they extended hand-lines inside the wood-framed stucco structure to do battle at the seat of the fire, while their colleagues swiftly took to the roof. Using chainsaws on this "hip" styled roof, the Truck Company had fire blowing out of the ventilation holes they cut. This released heat, smoke and gasses, which assisted another team of Firefighters to perform a detailed interior search of the 1,626 square-foot residence.
 During this search-and-rescue procedure an elderly male was found in the front room, pulseless and non-breathing. Firefighter/Paramedics earnestly provided CPR and Advanced Life Support at the scene and during transportation to a local hospital, where sadly he was later declared deceased.

Twenty-nine Firefighters confined the blaze to just two rooms, and declared a Knockdown in 14 minutes, before flames were able to damage any nearby structures. In examining the fire's aftermath, there was no immediate evidence of a functional smoke alarm within the 62-year old residence, nor was it equipped with residential fire sprinklers. There were no window bars or security doors to impair the 86 year-old male's escape. Monetary loss from the fire is estimated at $55,000 ($40,000 structure & $15,000 contents). The cause of this fire is undetermined.

Submitted by - Erik Scott, Spokesman,
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Structure Fire in Watts Claims Life of Elderly Male

On Thursday, August 12, 2010 at 3:13 AM, 5 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 2 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 2 Arson Units, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 1 Battalion Chief Officer Command Team, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, under the direction of Battalion Chief Jerome Boyd responded to a Civilian Fatality Structure Fire at 4038 South Ursula Avenue in the Baldwin Hills/Crenshaw area.
 
Firefighters arrived quickly to discover heavy smoke showing from a two-story garden type apartment building. While beginning to extend hoselines into one of the two bedroom units, firefighters were immediately met by a woman who apparently made it out of the residence with one of her five children. While continuing a systematic search through the smoke charged structure, a quick, bold and decisive interior attack on the fire was initiated.

Two additional children were rescued by firefighters and all were unharmed by smoke or flame. Sadly and despite the prompt work of all resources, two male teenage twins were discovered without vital signs of life in a rear room. Both boys were declared deceased at the scene. It took the diligent effort 36 firefighters 21 minutes to knock down the flames. All other residents in the home were unharmed. Although melted smoke alarms were present, it is unclear as whether or not they were a factor in warning the residents.

Seeking to comfort the grieving Mother, the LAFD quickly mobilized a Crisis Response Team to provide compassionate assistance to all friends and neighbors, and those closest to the victims. The American Red Cross was called in to aid the displaced and distraught family. This incident is a reminder to all families of the importance of E.D.I.T.H (Exit Drills In The Home), a well planned exit strategy in case of a fire. Although a Monetary loss exists, one can not truly be calculated where there is loss of life. A positive identification of both deceased, as well as the cause, manner and time of their deaths will be determined by the LA County Coroner's officials. The cause of the fire remains under an active investigation.

Submitted by Devin Gales, Spokesman Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Twin Boys Found Deceased From Apartment Fire

On Friday, July 30th, 2010 at 6:51 AM, 16 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 11 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 3 Arson Units, 1 Urban Search and Rescue Unit, 1 Rehab Unit, 2 Hazardous Materials Teams, 3 EMS Battalion Captains, 3 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Division Chief Officer Command Team, 2 bull dozers, LAPD, So Cal gas company, dwp, DOT, building & safety, LA County Health Services, Cal Osha, along with other agencies, all under the direction of Assistant Chief Daniel McCarthy responded to a MAJOR EMERGENCY at 936 East 59th Street in South Los Angeles.

Firefighters arrived to find a 100’ X 100’ one-story commercial building that sustained a massive explosion, which shook windows of nearby businesses. The front one-third of the building and roof collapsed in addition to being well involved in flames. One victim was thrown into the street from the explosion and pinned under a vehicle. Another victim was found in Cardiac Arrest after being electrocuted from power lines that were down. Emergency Traffic was declared over the radio by the Incident Commander to alert all on scene of the electrical hazard.

Firefighters jumped into action, and made a quick aggressive entry into the collapsing building. They endangered their lives to perform a rapid search of this large welding business, in hopes to rescue anyone possibly trapped. No one was immediately found, and due to the structure tumbling down around them, the Firefighters had to exit and battle the blaze defensively. Over 100 Firefighters were able to successfully knockdown the flames in just 25 minutes.

The Urban Search and Rescue Team, was then able to eliminate hazards and shore up beams, allowing a safer environment to perform a detailed and thorough search. K9 units were utilized to locate anyone possibly trapped under the rubble, however there were no hits and no additional victims were found.

Sadly one adult male deceased from electrocution. A second adult male suffered critical burns and was in the ICU at a California hospital awaiting a transfer to LA County USC hospital.

The cause of the explosion was due to illegal tampering with the gas meter. This enclosed structure was likely filling with natural gas, and when an ignition source sparked it, the powerful and deadly explosion occurred. Monetary loss from the explosion is estimated at $250,000 ($175,000 structure & $75,000 contents).


Submitted by Erik Scott, Spokesman Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Deadly Building Explosion in South LA

On Thursday, July 29, 2010 at 10:58 AM, 10 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 7 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 3 Urban Search and Rescue Units, 1 Rehab Unit, 2 Battalion Chief Officer Command Teams, 2 Division Chief Officer Command Teams, 1 Dozer Team, 1 Utility Resource under the direction of Assistant Chief T. Manning responded to a TRENCH RESCUE at 602 N. Palisades Dr. in Pacific Palisades.

Firefighters responded to a three story below grade single family dwelling, where reports of a person buried under an unknown amount of dirt was trapped. As crews quickly assessed the scene, they discovered that an individual who later was described as a 24 year old male, had been working in an 8x8 11 ft trench. The worker who apparently was attempting to water proof the area, was the victim of an unexpected cave in, just prior to the 911 call.

All personnel worked diligently and swiftly to try and dig out the man, but the un-shored, large amounts of dirt and the depth hole proved to be extremely challenging. With an already heavy amount of resources and equipment on scene, a request was made to call in three LAFD USAR Teams in an effort to expedite the rescue operation. A crew had to breach a nearby retaining wall to try and gain access to the victim. Despite the prompt efforts of the Los Angeles Firefighters and Paramedics, the injured male succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

It took 86 fire personnel and rescuers a little over five hours to completely recover the body of the worker. CAL –OSHA will continue an investigation as to what caused the incident, but the exact time and manner of death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office.



Submitted by Devin Gales, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department

READ MORE - Worker Dies After Being Trapped Under Dirt